Feature article
‘Smashed up and broken by vandals’: The man who brought Oamaru’s grand old hotel back to life
A 140-year-old Oamaru hotel has been painstakingly restored after years of neglect, vandalism and changing uses.
AI summary
After years of neglect and vandalism, Oamaru’s historic Junction Hotel has been meticulously restored by owner Ian Murton. He spent three years returning the 140-year-old building to its original 1880s grandeur, repairing extensive damage with help from local artisans and the Waitaki Heritage Fund.
The fully restored property, featuring authentic period details, is now for sale. It offers significant potential as a luxury bed and breakfast or a unique wedding venue in a prime location.
The forma living room is painted in a colour Ian Murton has specifically matched to the original paint. Photo: TRADE ME/ONE AGENCY
The Junction Hotel through the years
Historic photographs reveal the Junction Hotel’s past, from its heyday in Oamaru to its years as a “dry” hotel and changing uses.
The building during its restoration by owner Ian Murton. Photo: Supplied
The same bit of wall today, restored to its former glory. Photo: TRADE ME/ONE AGENCY
Ian tried to be as authentic as possible with his interiors. Photo: TRADE ME/ONE AGENCY
The home has six bedrooms, this one is in its original green. Photo: TRADE ME/ONE AGENCY
Ian had to add a couple of bathrooms, it now has four. Photo: TRADE ME/ONE AGENCY
The original staircase, which had been completely destroyed by vandals, is now restored. Photo: TRADE ME/ONE AGENCY
The home has six sitting rooms and a study, which has its own fireplace. Photo: TRADE ME/ONE AGENCY
The original pediment is now a stone garden feature. Photo: TRADE ME/ONE AGENCY
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