There’s been a bit of a shift lately – more and more Kiwis are swapping city streets for wide open spaces.

Lifestyle blocks, once considered the domain of farmers or folks nearing retirement, are now popping up on the radar of younger families, work-from-homers, and anyone keen to slow things down and live a bit closer to nature.

But before you go pulling up stumps and buying a pair of Red Bands, and a ride on mower let’s chat about what owning a lifestyle block in Central Otago actually means – the good, the not-so-good, and whether it’s the right move for you.

What Even Is a Lifestyle Block?

A lifestyle block is typically a piece of land bigger than your average section – think 1 to 10 hectares – usually found on the edge of town or out in the country.

You might have enough space for a big veggie garden, a few sheep or chooks, or even a pony or two for the kids.

It’s not quite a farm, but it’s definitely more than mowing the front lawn once a week.

Why Are More People Keen on Them?

There are a few reasons:

• Space to Breathe: After the last few years (and a couple of lockdowns), a lot of people are craving room to move. Lifestyle blocks offer privacy and the kind of peace and quiet you just don’t get in town.
• Work From Home Friendly: With flexible work on the rise, people aren’t tied to city offices. That means you can live where you actually want to live.
• Self-Sufficiency Goals: There’s something satisfying about eating your own tomatoes, collecting eggs from your backyard hens, or even running a few stock for the freezer.
• Great for Kids (and Adults Who Never Grew Up): Space to kick a ball, build a treehouse, or hoon around on a dirt bike? Yes please.

But It’s Not All Sunshine and Roses

Lifestyle blocks can be amazing – but they’re also a lot of work. Before you dive in, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Maintenance: More land = more upkeep. Fences need fixing, paddocks need mowing, and water systems need checking. It can chew through your weekends pretty quickly.
• Costs: It’s not just the mortgage. Think about water supply (tank or bore?), septic systems, driveways, and sometimes even extra gear like ride-on mowers or quad bikes.
• Isolation: For some, the peace and quiet is perfect. For others, it can feel a bit lonely – especially if you’re used to having neighbours close by or popping down the road for milk.
• Zoning and Rules: Depending on where you’re looking, there might be rules around what you can build, keep, or do on the land. Always good to check in with the local council first.

So, Is a Lifestyle Block Right for You?

If you’ve got a bit of a DIY spirit, don’t mind rolling up your sleeves, and love the idea of living with a bit more space and freedom – a lifestyle block could be a brilliant fit.

But it’s worth taking the rose-tinted glasses off too.

Talk to locals who already live the lifestyle. Visit properties in different seasons. And make sure you’re ready for the commitment – because while the rewards can be huge, so can the responsibilities.

Thinking About Making the Move?

There are some stunning lifestyle properties in Central Otago – from rolling hills in Springvale to a vineyard-adjacent blocks near Bannockburn.

If you’re curious or want help figuring out if it’s the right path for you, I’m always happy to chat.

Whether you’re dreaming of a few chickens, a full-blown hobby farm, or just space to stretch out – we’ll help you find your little patch of paradise.