On location – Rangitikei, NZ

ON LOCATION

Rangitikei,

North Island, New Zealand

Where are we?

The Rangitikei district is approximately 230km from Wellington. Mostly within the Manawatu-Whanganui region, a small part of the district lies in the Hawke’s Bay region. Centrally located between Palmerston North and Whanganui, it’s easy to make your way north to Lake Taupo and Auckland, or south to Wellington and further. Following the catchment of its namesake, the Rangitikei River, which is one of New Zealand’s longest rivers, the district covers over 4500 square kilometres and is home to the three main towns of Taihape, Marton and Bulls, and a number of villages including Mangaweka, Hunterville, Turakina and Ratana.

Lifestyle

Rangitikei’s central location, proximity to larger cities and undeniably beautiful scenery make the district a popular destination for people from all walks of life. Each town in the Rangitikei district has its own personality and has a strong community spirit. Marton, the largest of the district’s towns, is unpretentious - ‘what you see is what you get’ - giving an oldfashioned sense of community. It is a thriving township with well-respected schools and an excellent location for business growth. There is always something to see and do around Rangitikei, from the internationally renowned Marton Country Musical Festival, Turakina’s Highland Games, Taihape’s Gumboot Day, Bulls’ Wear-A-Bull Arts and Hunterville’s Shepherds Shemozzle, to the many historic and architecturally stunning homesteads scattered throughout the district.

Market

Marton and the greater Rangitikei district are a more affordable option for buyers than the larger surrounding cities and towns. This year the median house price in Marton was $319K, and wider Rangitikei district median $310K. Still an easy commute, the district is popular with retirees looking to downsize and move away from larger cities, and for first home buyers being pushed out of the pricier Palmerston North and Feilding markets. Good, well-presented homes are in demand, as are townhouses, with the ‘doer-upper’ a rarity. New developments in Marton and Bulls welcome new home builds to the district. It is a good time to sell, with a lot of buyer interest and low listings. 

Top things to do

Carol Lewis, team leader of Team Lewis Team Lewis, RE/MAX Go For Sold is proud to live and work in the ever-evolving Rangitikei district. With such a strong community, there’s something for everyone and she suggests:

• Take a drive along splendid country roads enjoying Rangitikei’s picturesque landscapes, stopping to enjoy beautiful gardens and excellent hospitality at many of the heritage homesteads along the way.

• Explore the enchantment of secluded areas and stunning beauty anywhere in the district.

• Fish at Moana Roa Beach at Scott’s Ferry, which is adjacent to the mouth of the Rangitikei River, or go for a stunning forest walk.

• For adventure seekers, the River Valley Lodge offers white water rafting, Grade 5 rapids, horse trekking and more.

• Have a round of golf at Rangitikei Golf Club, a great course if you are looking for a hit.