Change of pace for Aucklanders

Jan Bean loves living in Naseby, where she and her husband, Grant, have established the Old...
Jan Bean loves living in Naseby, where she and her husband, Grant, have established the Old Doctor's Residence luxury bed and breakfast, after moving to the village from Auckland a year ago. Photo by Rosie Manins.
Former Aucklanders Jan and Grant Bean are proof of Naseby's growth and its attraction as a place to live for those wanting a complete change of pace.

The couple, who used to manage pharmacies on Auckland's Queen St, fell in love with Naseby while cycling the Otago Central Rail Trail in 2006.

"Central Otago gives us a sense of peace and clears our minds. It takes away some of the stresses you have in a big city environment," Mrs Bean said.

Just a week after returning home from their cycling trip, the couple were back at Naseby house-hunting.

The old doctor's residence in the heart of Naseby was available, and a deal was struck with the former owners then and there.

"We let the owners stay in the home for a year while we sorted things out in Auckland. It gave us time to organise ourselves and for the former owners to build a new home," Mrs Bean said.

On Wednesday she was celebrating their first anniversary of moving into the house, which they have converted into luxury bed and breakfast accommodation.

Mrs Bean said business had been manic from when they opened in Spring 2007, to just a few weeks ago when temperatures fell and they were able to catch their breath.

"It's hard to believe we have noticed a change in Naseby during the year we have been here. There's definitely an upbeat feel to it, a feeling of positivity and growth," she said.

With an outsider's view of the village, Mrs Bean can see the role Naseby plays in Central Otago, and the potential it has for expansion.

"It's a really good base for exploring the district, with the Black Forest and its mountain biking, the rail trail, ice luge, and curling rink.

It is an easy drive to Alexandra and Cromwell, so people can stay at Naseby and do trips to parts of Central Otago where there is wine and other attractions," she said.

Mrs Bean had noticed changing demographics in Naseby, from an older generation to young families establishing themselves in the village.

Add a Comment

 

Advertisement