The Chinese business interests bidding for the Crafar farms now in receivership are still hoping to buy them, despite the properties going onto the open market.

The Hong-Kong-based investment company Natural Dairy had been in discussions with the Crafar family about buying its farms even before they were put into receivership, and a subsidy of the company has put in a bid to buy the entire parcel.

The 16 farms, mostly dairy units in the central and lower North Island, have been extensively advertised this week, both here and overseas.

Bayleys Real Estate spokesperson Scott Cordes says they’ve had enquiries from individual farmers on neighboring properties, as well as corporate and overseas interests.

Tenders for the farms close next month.