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New chapter for historic homestead
Words by Ben Zelas
Nestled just outside Takapau in Central Hawke’s Bay, the majestic Oruawharo Homestead has stood since 1879, acclaimed for its architectural value and a surviving example of the work of Charles Tringham, a notable Wellington architect of the time.
Now, thanks to the dedication of its new owners, Rob and Erica Lauder, the historic property is undergoing a careful and considered restoration. Their work restoring and painting the exterior of this stunning property, has seen them win the Resene Colour the Country competition this spring. The couple, who purchased the homestead during lockdown, moved south from Auckland to be closer to family, and were undeterred by the scale of the task. "We weren’t scared of a challenge," says Rob. "We knew we’d be taking on a lot, but it’s about preserving a piece of history."
The homestead, once part of a large sheep farming estate, had not seen a new coat of paint in over 23 years. Rob has taken on much of the exterior painting himself – an enormous job, given the size of the building and the preparation involved. So far, he’s completed two of the five sides. The weatherboards, made of Totara milled on the property in the 1800s, are still remarkably sound. “Although there’s not one bit of rot in them after 145 years, the amount of work to prep them was an unexpected surprise.” Rob admits.
Resene products have been instrumental in the restoration. Raw timber is treated with Resene TimberLock, undercoated with Resene Quick Dry, and then finished with two coats of Resene Sonyx 101. The weatherboards are painted in Resene Double Sea Fog, a soft off-white, paired with crisp white window frames. “We played with a few testpots, but we’ve done enough painting to know what we like,” explains Rob. “Resene paints were an easy choice having used them for years.” While the homestead itself isn’t used for functions, tours are run for those keen to experience the striking interior, including its matai flooring, which is unusually light in colour, suggesting an unusual treatment. Beyond the homestead sits a former church, originally built in Takapau by the original owners and now used as a function centre after being returned to the property.
Restoration is very much a family affair. Rob’s son, a builder, lives in the cottage on the grounds with his wife and contributes to the ongoing repairs and maintenance of the expansive grounds. Erica balances her work as a GP with helping around the property. “There’s always something to do whether it’s painting, gardening or managing the land. It’s a team effort,” says Rob. Next on the list? A long-overdue kitchen renovation and more exterior painting which includes the building’s striking quoins. With the Resene ColorShop prize voucher in hand and plenty of painting still to be done, Rob and Erica are looking forward to continuing their labour of love.
Resene Top Tip
Paint your steps and patio to complement your home’s colour palette with Resene Walk-on paving paint, available in a wide range of colours. For extra slip-resistance mix with Resene Anti-Slip Grip Additive or use Resene Non-Skid Deck & Path to keep family, friends and guests safe.
Farmlands and Resene are on the hunt for the country’s best rural Resene projects.
We're looking for photos and the stories behind your kitchen, shed, barn or bedroom – anything inside or outside that's painted, stained or wallpapered with Resene products!
The winning projects will not only win a $1,000 Resene ColorShop voucher and a $250 Farmlands Gift Card, but will also feature in an upcoming issue of Farmlander magazine.