I live on a small lifestyle property on the outskirts of Tokomaru, and let me tell you, it's a dream come true. For me, the magic of a lifestyle property lies in the balance it strikes between rural tranquility and the potential for commercial returns. You see, the key things I was looking for were minimal neighbors and privacy. It's an incredible feeling to wake up and find farmland stretching as far as the eye can see, both in front and behind our property.

One of my favourite things about this place, especially this time of year, is watching the calves frolicking in the fields. It's like having a front-row seat to nature's theatre right outside my window. Another huge advantage of being a bit out of town is the minimal light pollution. Most nights, the stars put on a breathtaking show that my family enjoys.

We wanted a place far enough from the city to feel like a true escape but not so far that it becomes isolating. The balance is perfect here. And, of course, having a decent shed for my cars and motorbikes was non-negotiable, along with a dedicated sleepout that's affectionately known as my "man cave."

Our property has room for just about everything. We've got a thriving vegetable garden, and our orchard boasts pine nuts, walnuts, nectarines, pears, apples, plums, mandarins, feijoas, and a lemon tree. At this point in time, our lifestyle property is simply that, and we have been relishing its joys.

For many the real magic happens when you can seamlessly blend your way of life with smart investment opportunities. Take, for instance, one of my mates Sean, who recently purchased a sprawling 9-acre property between Colyton and Ashhurst. Sean's not just living there; he's building a thriving business. Part of his land has transformed into a yard for his trucks, diggers, trailers, and a ute fleet, while the other portion is dedicated to grazing sheep, a new income stream and a source of sustenance for his family.

But Sean's not the only one turning his lifestyle into a multifaceted treasure trove. Another mate decided to build his home on a picturesque 1-hectare block in the Kahuterawa Valley. Not content with just a beautiful house, he incorporated his business into spacious sheds on a part of his land. On the opposite face of the valley, there is a large grove of manuka trees, a decision that could soon turn into a golden opportunity. How, you ask? Well, he's planning to introduce beehives to collect nectar and produce high-value manuka honey, a liquid gold in today's world!

And that's not all. He's also managing around 30 sheep and has invested in a significant planting of Gum trees to keep the home fires burning, quite literally. His land isn't just a home; it's a multi-faceted provider. It offers space for his business and an additional income stream for his family that could lead to a honey-sweet payoff and most importantly a personal Eden for his kids to grow up in

These stories are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the possibilities that lifestyle properties offer. So, if you are ready to embark on your lifestyle property in Palmerston North and the beautiful surrounding areas, don’t hesitate to reach out. I'm here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your real estate needs are not just met but exceeded.

Ben Duncan