PHOTO: Clarke, who died in 2017, became a household name in the 1970s with Fred Dagg
The Palmerston North childhood home of legendary Kiwi comedian John Clarke — the man behind gumboot-wearing, singlet-clad farming icon Fred Dagg — has hit the market for the first time in more than six decades.
Located at 18 Milverton Avenue, in the sought-after Hokowhitu suburb, this charming three-bedroom character bungalow is steeped in history and still retains original features from Clarke’s time there.
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Clarke, who died in 2017, became a household name in the 1970s with Fred Dagg — a satire-soaked portrayal of rural New Zealand life, complete with dry humour, political jabs, and seven sons all called “Trev.” His 1976 album Fred Dagg’s Greatest Hits topped the charts, cementing his place in Kiwi pop culture.
18 Milverton Avenue, in Hokowhitu, Palmerston North. Photo / Supplied
🏠 A Rare Slice of Palmerston North Real Estate History
The property has been in the hands of only two families in over 60 years. After Clarke’s family sold in the 1960s, the Lloyd family moved in, and their daughter, actor May Lloyd, recalls a magical childhood filled with imagination, big back gardens, and a tiny bedroom with just enough space for a single bed.
Lloyd fondly remembers that the home’s fake brick textured entranceway wallpaper — a 1950s design staple — remains intact, as does the cupboard above the fridge where Clarke once played.
🌳 One of Palmerston North’s Most Sought-After Streets
The real estate agent describes Milverton Avenue as one of the most desirable addresses in the city:
“It’s one of the few established, tree-lined avenues in Palmerston North. I raised my kids just around the corner, and we walked everywhere.”
Homes here are tightly held, making this listing a standout in the Palmerston North property market. For buyers looking for a do-up project in a blue-chip location, this bungalow offers both investment potential and heritage charm.
📸 Celebrity Connections & Local Legacy
The home has even had a brush with Hollywood — actor Sam Neill once knocked on the door while on a mission from Clarke’s wife to photograph the property and Clarke’s old school.
Clarke’s influence stretched beyond New Zealand. After moving to Australia in 1977, he became a star through the satirical series Clarke and Dawe and The Games, lampooning political life and Olympic preparations.
🔑 Property Highlights
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📍 18 Milverton Avenue, Hokowhitu, Palmerston North
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🛏 3 bedrooms
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🌳 Large, established back garden
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🏛 Retains many original 1950s features
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🚶♂️ Walking distance to schools, shops, and parks
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🛠 Ideal renovation opportunity in prime location
💬 Local and out-of-town buyers are expected to show strong interest in this rare opportunity to secure a property that blends Palmerston North real estate value, history, and location prestige.
SOURCE: ONE ROOF
