Everyone loves a good news story. And the story of Kaitangata, the little town that could, ticks all the feel-good boxes.
Two months ago this newspaper first reported the seeds of a venture being spearheaded by a group of community-minded Kaitangata citizens - representatives from a bank, law firm, real estate company and house development company - who had come together to present a unique lifestyle opportunity.
The group's aim was to entice young working couples to the small South Otago town, population 800, by offering an affordable house and land package. For a starting price of $230,000, buyers could get a newly-built three-bedroom house and a section, and the purchasing process would be streamlined. In return, the town would get a population boost and more workers.
Since then, the story has been picked up by national media and in the past week or so has "gone global''.
There have reportedly been eight or nine serious offers for each of the eight initially available sections. Five have been sold and the group has put the remainder on hold while it considers how to respond given the scale of the interest - particularly how to ensure the sections are sold to genuine buyers not speculators. It has further sections in the pipeline, too.
It was always possible the venture would attract some local and national interest. After all, with an average Queenstown house now costing $875,000, and an average Auckland house almost $1 million, this was an offer worthy of serious consideration for families and young couples; an opportunity to turn the increasingly elusive Kiwi dream of home ownership into reality.
It is outstanding value for money. For those prepared to leave the rat race behind and relocate, it could be a game-changer - for individuals and the town.
The global buzz has been totally unpredictable, however. The story has been carried by major media outlets in the UK and US. Clutha Mayor Bryan Cadogan told the ODT on Friday more than 10,000 people from around the world had contacted him and other locals about moving to the town.
They had received phone calls, emails and inquiries and comments via social media. This newspaper has also received international inquiries in response to the several stories we have published on the issue.
The story has certainly captured the public imagination. New Zealand has always been a drawcard for immigrants and tourists alike and, in an increasingly uncertain world, our isolation and safety are compelling factors in our favour. And in a global market where housing affordability and availability are a problem, the price is definitely right for inspection.
Of course, much will be the novelty factor. While the group might be keen to market Kaitangata as a "hidden gem'', the reality is the rural lifestyle and isolation won't be for everyone.
There will be many people from overseas - not to mention New Zealand - who have little if any idea where Kaitangata is and what is has to offer.
But Kai is well and truly on the map now, and what the venture has demonstrated - once again - is what can be achieved with a bit of vision and determination.
This sort of spirit is often displayed in small communities which have to be resourceful in order to survive. The area has been reaping the benefits of Mr Cadogan's vision to employ and retain the Clutha District's youth, for example. Other towns could now be inspired to follow suit with this venture.
The group is right to put the brakes on and ensure the house and section packages go to legitimate buyers, though. To be the complete good news story, need, not greed, must win the day.
Ka pai, Kai!
