Manitoba's opposition leader is defending his decision to buy a mansion for more than $2 million, saying he has "scraped to build success" over the years.

Brian Pallister held a press conference on Monday about his purchase in October of the 9,000-square-foot house on Winnipeg's Wellington Crescent.

It's only the second time in Winnipeg's history that a house has sold for more than $2 million, the association representing local real estate agents said last week.

Pallister defended his purchase by defending his personal record, which he said started with a "blue collar background" on a family farm.

"Anyone who does a modicum of research in my public service would know that my priorities have always been and continue to be with those who need better government," he told reporters.

"That is especially true of people who are working and are poor or are struggling to aim higher in their lives."

In a release, Pallister said he had "scraped to build success" using "hard work and perseverance."

“I have a strong track record in money management. I have worked for years to help Manitobans become financially successful and have shown through that success that I can manage effectively the province’s finances,” said Pallister, in a release.

Pallister's new house sits on a 1.7-acre riverside lot, according to the property's real-estate listing. Annual property taxes are estimated at $38,000.