A high-profile character landmark in the heart of North Canterbury’s growth corridor presents a rare opportunity to acquire a landholding with substantial scale, flexible use rights, and compelling upside potential, Bayleys brokers say.

Bayleys Canterbury’s Terry Connolly is marketing the 9,705sqm (more or less) freehold landholding at 1473 Main North Road for sale with an asking price of $2,400,000 plus GST (if any).

Positioned with 120m of frontage to State Highway 1, the property is known as Brick Mill – a renowned destination for arts, crafts and boutique hospitality.

“The collection of character-filled commercial and industrial improvements, totalling approximately 2,800sqm, currently supports a mix of uses, including a pottery studio, gallery and café, with scope to generate multiple income streams or reimagine the site to suit long-term growth and demand.”

Connolly says the land’s zoning under the Waimakariri District Plan as Residential 4A/B (Large Lot Residential), with commercial and/or retail activity as a permitted use, provides rare flexibility in a region experiencing a surge in popularity.

“Along the northern boundary flows the tranquil Waikuku Stream, and on-site an 11,000 kVA transformer, provides serious power infrastructure – broadening tenant appeal and giving buyers confidence in long-term occupancy and rental income potential.

“Additionally, strong population growth and an emphasis on local infrastructure investment across Waikuku, Pegasus and Woodend have stimulated local economic activity and increased North Canterbury’s desirability as a lifestyle destination.

“The ability to occupy, lease or redevelop the property under flexible planning rules makes it an attractive proposition for owner-occupiers, developers and future-focused investors.”

The property has a rich history of industrial and artisanal use, having served initially as Donaghy Industries’ rope and twine production facility, which was once the largest of its kind globally.

For more than three decades, it has been home to Sanderson Pottery, with a leased café premises continuing to operate onsite in addition to several monthly tenancies generating a total net return of approximately $60,000 plus GST pa.

Connolly notes that while possible use options for the site have included an entertainment precinct, renewed interest in lifestyle-oriented regional development and a healthy tourism sector, underscores long-term value.

“North Canterbury has witnessed a shift in buyer and visitor preferences post-pandemic, with demand rising for authentic, community-driven spaces that blend commercial activity with creative and cultural experiences. ‘The Mill’ fits that bill perfectly,” he says.

Located 30km from Christchurch and 10km from Rangiora, the property is within easy reach of thriving growth hubs, including Pegasus, Woodend, and Ravenswood.

Connolly says in addition to its charming heritage aesthetic, the buildings offer solid bones, with sealed yard space, garden areas, and parking. “The excess land area allows for future expansion and development.”

“Whether you’re looking to create a destination or a residential development, the property presents an appealing character canvas with scale and visibility on one of the country’s busiest highways.

“Historic properties of this calibre don’t come online often with zoning flexibility and a proven track record of commercial success. It’s a chance to make a mark in one of the South Island’s most promising growth areas,” Connolly says.