The 19th Century mansion of a former Tauranga mayor, full of character and history, is up for sale.

Built by one of Tauranga's pioneers John Cuthbert Adams (1854-1932), who was Mayor from 1917-1919, Taiparoro House currently operates as a bed and breakfast.

The vastness of the house is due to the former mayor's large family – when he died he left behind four sons and seven daughters. Many of his children came of age during the First World War, in which his sons served. His daughter lost her fiancé at Gallipoli.

She never married, but her sisters held their wedding parties in the garden overlooking the Tauranga Harbour.

Current owners Kevin and Lois Kelly have owned the place since 1991. 'We've only recently been running it as a bed and breakfast – about 18 months,” says Kevin.

'We leased the property for about six years, and returned three years ago when we freshened the place up.”

Although the exterior remains essentially as it always has been, the home's interior has been renovated, including a completely modern kitchen. A conservatory has also been added, although it could easily have been part of the original, such is its keeping with the character of the rest of the house.

The property is listed with the Historic Places Trust, which essentially means anything an owner wishes to do to the house requires a consent and also needs approval from the trust.

'It means if you do any alterations, it must be in keeping with the character of the home.”

The Kellys are the fourth owners. Previously, the house sold at auction for $75,000 – in 1973. In 1990 it was on the market for $390,000. With its size, stunning views and location, though, it's likely to go for a little more in 2016.

Having seven bedrooms – six with ensuites – means there will be a very specific buyer out there. But they need not run it as a B&B.

'It would be a great family home, or for people who enjoy entertaining and having people stay over,” suggests Kevin.

Eves Realty agent Ross Brown describes the house as a 'stately villa” with the convenience of the CBD only a short stroll away.

'It would have to be one of the most unique properties in Tauranga.”

Ross says Tauranga doesn't have a lot of historic buildings left in situ, so the property is a rare find for anyone who appreciates homes with history.

Viewings for Taiparoro House are by appointment only. Interested parties may contact Ross Brown on 021 288 9090 or Charmaine Sutherland on 027 549 1106 to find out more.