Pauline Geddes’ Musselburgh home is one of 146 buildings which the Dunedin City Council has identified may be added to the heritage schedule, as part of proposed changes to the district plan.
In her written submission opposing the changes, she said the proposed heritage listing on the building’s external envelope would "seriously restrict" her ability to sell it in the future.
Paying rates, insurance and electricity on her pension was already a struggle and she had no means — physical or financial — to maintain the 1920s property.
"It is not a grand home, but more suited to being a boarding house with its numerous tiny bedrooms.
"I am very concerned about my future as an elderly widow and feel I shouldn’t be pushed into this situation against my will."
Mrs Geddes said the council had "missed the boat" to protect the property.
The council’s heritage assessment had identified historic, design and technological significance because the house was designed by, and the private residence of, notable Dunedin architect Edmund Anscombe.
"It is [a] quality residence that has largely maintained its original architectural intent," the report said.
However, the council approved numerous alternations to the building over the years — including extending the back wall by more than 2m — and had "forfeited" any claim the home had historic value, Mrs Geddes said.
"There’s not much of the house left that hadn’t been altered ... the whole back’s been added on.
"So how can they make the whole exterior covered by the heritage?
"Somebody wanting to buy a boarding house is not interested in having all that heritage nonsense hanging off it."
The proposed additions were supported by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Southern director Christine Whybrew, who said in her submission the items covered a broad representation of Dunedin’s built-heritage and culture.
"The management of the city’s finite heritage resources is especially important for enabling ... full understanding and appreciation of the district and to enhance the value that the region’s residents gain from living and working in and around historic places."
She asked the council to amend sections of the district plan to further protect heritage structures from permitted activities.
Business South chief executive Mike Collins urged the council to work with businesses to find a balance between heritage protection and economic realities.
"The proposed changes impact heritage buildings and urban development ... but also pose economic and practical challenges for property owners, developers, tenants and businesses."
A public hearing on the plan change is scheduled for mid-2025.
