PHOTO: Rebecca Gibney. PREVENTION AUSTRALIA
Award-winning New Zealand actress Rebecca Gibney, renowned for her acclaimed performances in popular series like Packed to the Rafters and The Flying Doctors, has put her picturesque rural home in Dunedin on the market. The stunning property, which boasts captivating views of the ocean, is being sold as Gibney and her husband Richard Bell seek to relocate closer to their son.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, the Kiwi-born actress, who spent many years residing in Australia, expressed mixed emotions about parting ways with their idyllic countryside retreat in Brighton. Gibney affectionately referred to their decision to move north as “stalking” their son, albeit for various reasons beyond just parental surveillance.
Having lived in Dunedin for a significant period, Gibney conveyed her gratitude to the city for providing solace and warmth, expressing her fondness for its people as she bids farewell to the community.
The sprawling property, situated on Taieri Mouth Road in Brighton, was acquired by Gibney and Bell in 2017. Designed by the esteemed architectural firm McCoy Wixon, the estate spans 12.5 hectares of land, encompassing 17 paddocks and a blue gum plantation.
Market listings by Bayleys agents Kylie Cashmore and Anita Greene describe the property as an epitome of “relaxed luxury,” featuring panoramic ocean vistas and an irresistible rural charm. The main residence exudes opulence with its three double bedrooms and two bathrooms, while a separate guest retreat offers two additional bedrooms along with a kitchenette and bathroom.
Gibney in her hit show Packed to the Rafters with co-star Erik Thomson. Photo / Supplied
The schist fireplace matches the home’s attractive exterior. Photo / Supplied
Notable features of the property include a well-appointed kitchen equipped with high-end appliances, a captivating schist fireplace in the sunken lounge, underfloor heating, and a luxurious outdoor bathtub by Stoked. The couple recently expanded the estate with the addition of a triple garage, conveniently located just minutes away from Brighton and a short drive from Dunedin’s CBD.
Gibney’s decision to relocate stems partly from her son’s affinity for the outdoor lifestyle and skiing, cultivated during the family’s stint in Queenstown while working on their series Wanted. Despite initially settling in Dunedin, Gibney contemplated moving closer to her son after he embarked on his acting studies in Wellington in 2022.
The Stoked outdoor bathtub is described as “next level luxury” . Photo / Supplied
The luxury home is perched on 12.5ha overlooking the ocean. Photo / Supplied
During her time in the South Island, Gibney has been actively involved in the television industry, serving as executive producer and starring in the comedy-drama series Under the Vines, filmed in Central Otago. With filming for the third season concluded last year, fans can anticipate its release later this year.
Gibney’s illustrious acting career began in Australia at the age of 18, where she gained widespread recognition for her role as mechanic Emma Plimpton in The Flying Doctors. While her professional endeavors have taken her across borders, Gibney maintains strong familial ties, with her relatives, including her mother, residing in Brisbane.
SOURCE: ONE ROOF