Discover

‘I wouldn't say we agreed instantly’: The couple who bought a derelict school in a tiny town

Quarry Hill School has been given a new lease of life.

Alan Granville
Last updated: 13 July 2026 | 3 min read
AI

AI summary

Ian and Sue Rogers transformed the derelict Quarry Hill School in Southland into a unique home. The ambitious project involved gutting the 1958 building, adding modern insulation and double glazing, while preserving original features like a chalkboard and cubby holes to maintain its character.

A standout feature is the old swimming pool, now a one-bedroom chalet. The renovation took three years and cost around $250,000. The property is now listed for sale with Bayleys.

How it looked when the couple arrived. Photo: SUPPLIED

Looking much better now. Photo: BAYLEYS/TRADE ME

Ian "Hippy" Rogers and his wife Sue. Photo: SUPPLIED

The building was stripped back. Photo: SUPPLIED

The kitchen used a lot of reused material. Photo: BAYLEYS/TRADE ME

It took three years to renovate. Photo: BAYLEYS/TRADE ME

The main living room is bright. Photo: BAYLEYS/TRADE ME

It used to look very different. Photo: SUPPLIED

And now. Photo: BAYLEYS/TRADE ME

The original chalkboard remains. Photo: BAYLEYS/TRADE ME

The cubby holes have survived. Photo: BAYLEYS/TRADE ME

The pool had seen better days when the couple bought the property. Photo: SUPPLIED

The new chalet has been built. Photo: BAYLEYS/TRADE ME

A bath in the old swimming pool. Photo: BAYLEYS/TRADE ME

The property sits on half a hectare of land. Photo: BAYLEYS/TRADE ME

The bell to call the children into class. Photo: BAYLEYS/TRADE ME

Author

Alan Granville Alan Granville
Stuff