148-Year-Old Store Becomes Colorful Home in Napier

When Kim Hands bought a dilapidated 148-year-old general store in Ahuriri, Napier 27 years ago, it was covered in "horrible pale fawn" paint and divided into three shabby flats. Today, the landmark building bursts with color, reflecting the vibrant personality of the owner who transformed it into a home filled with decades of memories.

The building started life in 1878 as the local general store, just one block from the waterfront. Extensions were added in the 1930s, and by the 1950s or 60s it had been converted into rental flats that had seen better days.

Hands paid $205,000 for the property, which included a villa next door. As an arts student raising her young son, she subdivided and sold the villa while collecting rent from the flats to cover her mortgage.

Then she took the plunge, taking out more loans to convert the entire building into a single home. Inspired by artist Frida Kahlo, she painted the exterior in brilliant hues, though she notes most interior walls are actually white with colorful doors and windows adding the punch.

Sunny's Take

This home became far more than just a colorful renovation project. Over the years, Hands opened her doors to dozens of young people, including her children's friends going through difficult times.

"They're all as messy as hell," she laughs. "But it's been an amazing home for my kids." The house has hosted countless parties, music artists, and even wedding photo shoots, becoming a beloved community landmark.

Social media comments on the listing reveal the building's impact. Former residents share memories of living there decades ago, when it was still "really a shack inside" for $65 a week.

Now the five-bedroom house features high ceilings, original timber floors, three bathrooms, and a sunny courtyard perfect for entertaining. One bedroom was even converted into a hair salon with its own entrance.

Hands isn't leaving the area she helped revitalize. She's subdivided the rear land where she's already converted two sheds into Airbnb units and plans to build herself a smaller new home.

Her decision to preserve the historic street frontage comes from the heart. "If I sold the whole lot, someone would rip it down and build four houses," she explains. "I am trying to save a bit of the history of the area."

She hopes the next owner will embrace the building's character and keep the color alive, proving that preserving history doesn't mean sacrificing joy.