An old homestead at a historic East Otago farm has been destroyed by fire. The large blaze occurred in Matanaka Rd on the Matanaka Station near Waikouaiti, a Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokesman said. "We've got a large, old homestead on the Matanaka Station well ablaze." PHOTO: GREGOR RICHARDSONHeritage New Zealand says the farm at Matanaka is thought to be New Zealand’s oldest surviving farm. Australian entrepreneur Johnny Jones, a ship-owner, whaler and trader, purchased a whaling station and land at Waikouaiti in 1838.

Source: Otago Daily Times May 30, 2022 16:43 UTC