Trust incentive for Butler’s Farm restoration

19 June 2009

MEDIA RELEASE

Trust incentive for Butler’s Farm restoration

The heritage-minded owner of an historic grouping of farm buildings in Central Otago has received a financial boost from the New Zealand Historic Places Trust (NZHPT) to assist in his restoration project.

Nick Taylor owns Butler’s Farm on SH8 near Alexandra. The complex is an important grouping of buildings comprising a stone farmstead and barn plus other outbuildings, set in the Fruitlands district. Established in the early 1870s, the farm was associated in the twentieth century with the orcharding firm after which the district is named.

In February Butler’s Farm was given Category I status, reflecting the special or outstanding historical and cultural heritage significance and value of the site.

NZHPT allocates government funding through its National Heritage Preservation Incentive Fund (NHPIF) to any privately-owned property that is registered as a Category I historic place on its National Register or could satisfy the requirements for top registration.

NZHPT Otago/Southland Area manager Owen Graham said the farm buildings had considerable heritage and historical significance. The grant, of up to $40,800, would help cover costs of a building and site survey, conservation plan, archaeological assessment and engineering report.

“Originally the farm was involved in dairying when the industry was in its infancy,” Mr Graham said.

“John Butler purchased the farm in 1878 and later moved into orcharding. Fruit tree planting on Fruitlands Estate began in 1915, with 30,000 trees planted across 150 acres. However, tough winters meant the venture failed in 1928 with use returning to farming.

“The undertaking by Nick to return Butler’s Farm to its former glory is fantastic. From an NZHPT perspective we are delighted to be able to help with his work.”

Mr Taylor said the appeal of Butler’s Farm was difficult to put into words. “Another person might only see a pile of stones, but I see much more. Stone is a beautiful building material, and Butler’s Farm is the genuine article.”

Much “invisible work” needed to be done by a diverse collection of specialised professionals before starting the physical restoration, Mr Taylor said.

“We have survey work underway at the moment, and following that will be an archaeological and engineering assessment. Architect Jackie Gillies is a key person, a safe pair of hands who I am very happy to have involved in the project. NZHPT and its staff are also firmly amongst this group of specialists who I look forward to working with.

“The future use of the buildings is dependent on this work but the end result will be to ensure that many people can experience a significant part of local history.”

NZHPT hopes the Central Otago District Council will list Butler’s Farm on its District Plan.

“While recognising the importance places have in New Zealand’s cultural and historic identity, NZHPT registrations do not offer any protection. That comes when local authorities take the lead and list buildings on their district plans,” Mr Graham said.

ends

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