Getting to know... Charlie Fairhall-McLean

A sixth-generation Marlburian, Charlie channels her deep connection to the land and community into her real estate work at Bayleys Marlborough, where she’s proud of their principal sponsorship of Garden Marlborough this year. Charlie shares her passions, pet peeves and a few of her favourite local spots.

At the weekend you’ll find me… I might be down at the family bach or fishing out at D’Urville; that is, if I’m not showing or staging beautiful homes around Marlborough. If you fail to find me, I’ll most definitely be on one of my horses, either Vogue or Flash.

I’m a real nerd about… Keeping the house clean and tidy, I believe a tidy house is a tidy mind... and my Dyson is way more than just a vacuum. If you have one, I’m sure you’ll agree.

My most useful skill is… 100% has to be backing a trailer or driving a 21-tonne truck. Growing up on a farm and helping with the harvest, these were skills I learnt at an early age, which have become very handy.

I get my coffee fix from… Streetwise Coffee. Not only do they remember your coffee order, but the service is always with a smile that goes a long way to make someone’s day. I also love the fact they use ‘Havana Coffee,’ which is founded by a family friend.

I get myself out of a funk by… Turning on some country music and getting outside in the fresh air, soaking up the large backyard Marlborough has to offer.

My biggest pet peeve is… A laden camellia tree. I love trees and gardening, but I had to make the heartbreaking decision recently to remove a large tree at home because it continued to shower the lawn and deck with pink confetti, much to the amusement of my flatmates, who watched me constantly rake it up in the dark – OCD got the better of me.

I am most passionate about… My job, my family, and of course, my animals. Real estate, for me, isn’t just a career but a calling that fulfils me, helping people with one of the biggest decisions in life, while my family provides unwavering support and love. My animals add a special touch of companionship and make every day richer and more meaningful.

My biggest regret is… I’d have to say not working on the superyachts in the Mediterranean for longer. Four and a half years went by way too fast and just wasn’t long enough, but I sure hold some incredible memories and stories about the rich and famous.

My favourite memory growing up… This one’s easy: playing hide and seek as a child in my grandparents’ crop fields on Wratts Road. It may be planted in grapes now, but I’ll always cherish those memories.