From Coatesville to Clevedon, Auckland is home to some incredible property. Architectural marvels can be found everywhere in Tāmaki Makaurau. These include modern masterpieces that could grace the pages of Architectural Digest and heritage properties that owners have lovingly maintained, making them perfectly suited to contemporary living.
Some of the properties we have found could be some of New Zealand’s most expensive homes. However, we’re looking for a range of properties that speak to Tāmaki Makaurau’s architectural character and history. These properties have lush grounds, swimming pools and panoramic views, but the styles all differ, offering something for everyone.
Auckland’s best property

Mid-century inspired on the waterfront
CV: $4,825,000 at Bayleys
This Greenhithe statement home was reimagined and rebuilt in 2001, in honour of the home’s mid-century roots. The design is intended to capture sunlight from every direction. With floor-to-ceiling windows and doors, the space seamlessly connects to the outdoors. However, privacy hasn’t been overlooked. This home feels miles away from the rest of the North Shore. The approximately 450-square-metre structure is nestled amidst lush greenery and offers breathtaking sea views.
The direct access to the water is something most Aucklanders would be in awe of. The space is ideal for boating, paddleboating and kayaking. After a day out on the water, enjoy the light-filled spaces to sit with family or entertain. The grand formal living room, complete with a cosy fireplace, sets the tone for elegance and comfort. It seamlessly connects to the gourmet kitchen, creating an inviting space for relaxation and entertainment.

The white house by the beach
CV: $2,850,000 at Bayleys
When browsing real estate listings, it’s rare to find a home that offers more than just a place to live. The ever-imaginative Chris Tate designed this showpiece, making it sophisticated, iconic and impossibly cool.
Here, you’re just a stone’s throw away from the beach, yet you may never feel the need to leave the property. The ground floor features a classic pavilion design, creating an open and airy atmosphere. The expansive living space flows out to the round pool, outdoor pavilion and an inviting outdoor dining area. Climb the spiral staircase to the private upstairs retreat. Here you’ll discover a second living room, offering a peaceful place to unwind. The main bedroom, complete with a shuttered balcony, features a luxurious freestanding outdoor bath. Have a soak, relax and take in the surroundings.
The real scene stealer, however, is the rooftop, where an entertainment zone provides Ibiza-esque living. Enjoy the sun go down with 360-degree views of Omaha Beach, out to the Pacific Ocean.

Arts and Crafts with harbour views
CV: $7,250,000 at Bayleys
Step back in time on Stanley Point to this magnificently restored estate. Situated in a prime location, this landmark home offers stunning harbour views and direct access to the beach. Renowned Arts and Crafts architect Gerald Jones originally built the home, known as Anderleigh, in the 1920s. Over the years, they have thoughtfully refurbished and expanded it, blending timeless charm with modern amenities for a contemporary lifestyle.
On the ground floor, you’ll have your pick of spaces to entertain or spend an afternoon. From the kitchen, step into the sunroom, where natural light pours in and creates a serene atmosphere. From there, drift off to either of the two living rooms or relax on the sheltered private terrace. Venture out to the gardens, where you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool, or unwind in the spa. For those who love the open water, a short walk leads you down to the bay’s edge. The gardens also include a glasshouse and veggie patches, forfect for any budding gardeners.
The design dedicates the upstairs area to the private spaces of the home, including all five bedrooms. The main suite stands out, offering expansive views of the water.

Embracing the rural lifestyle of Clevedon
CV: POA, Paterson Luxury
This architectural masterpiece is one to watch. Local architect Cate Creemers carefully considered every detail when designing this home. From its strategic position atop the sloping ridge, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding fields, to its focus on energy efficiency, no aspect was overlooked. The home was also built for high performance, ensuring both sustainability and comfort.
At first glance, you’ll be captivated by the home’s remarkable details. The shape, materials, and outlook all come together, making it seem as though the home was always meant to be here. As you step through the grand front door, the long corridor leads you towards the impeccable outlook that enhances the sense of place. The interiors have been beautifully finished with oak flooring, panelled ceilings, and soft wool carpet. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame each room, filling the home with natural light and exuding warmth and character throughout.
The home has been future-proofed too, ready for anyone to make their changes as time goes by. Passive solar design principles were front of mind in the construction, with optimised insulation and high-performance windows and glazing.

Life on Takapuna Lake
CV: 19,500,000 at Precision Real Estate
For adventurers, water-sport enthusiasts and sports lovers, this home truly has it all. Located on the edge of Lake Pupuke, it features a private jetty, perfect for launching your boat or jet ski. In addition, you’ll find a large, 25-metre lap pool and a tennis court, offering endless opportunities for recreation.
The designer thoughtfully created the house as a series of pavilions, all connected by the heart of the home – the kitchen. A striking timber pivot door marks the entrance, leading you down a hallway that passes a pair of bedrooms and a bathroom, before reaching the expansive kitchen. The second pavilion contains the main living areas, including the dining room, lounge, family room. It also houses the main bedroom, which offers serene views overlooking the lake.
This home really is one timeless sophistication and luxury.

Waterfront estate on Waiheke Island
CV: POA, Bayleys
Imagine having your own private peninsula on Waiheke Island. Known as Heriot Grove, this waterfront home seamlessly marries nature’s beauty with a refined island lifestyle. Its design evokes the charm of Cape Cod or the Hamptons, offering an effortlessly elegant, warm, and welcoming atmosphere.
With five bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms, this home is perfect for entertaining friends and family, or raising children away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The ever-present Waiheke sun floods the interiors through the expansive windows, filling each room with light. In turn, these windows offer stunning views out to the hills behind Beachlands and Mareatai.
The spacious grounds are perfect for a game of backyard cricket, though you may want to invest in a ride-on mower to keep things neat. With so much room to explore, the opportunities for endless joy and memories are boundless here.

A classic white villa with a contemporary twist
$10,400,000 at Wall Real Estate
Among the charming, traditional villas lining the streets of Freeman Bays, this home stands out, though it’s not immediately obvious. The only hint of its inner secrets is the colourful owl sculpture that peeks above the fence. Inside, the home is a unique blend of gallery and residence, with art seamlessly woven its its design.
At the heart of the home is an internal courtyard, alive with an array of lush fauna. This tropical jungle can be viewed from various aspects of the property, creating a sense of connection with nature. The outdoor space mirrors this, bordered with tall trees that provide privacy and seclusion.
With four bedrooms, six bathrooms, two living rooms, a gym, sauna and a pool, the luxury of this home is unparalleled. It offers a lifestyle that would be hard to replicate anywhere else, especially considering its proximity to the vibrant energy of Ponsonby.

Modern, refined living in historic Herne Bay
$6,300,000 at Sotheby’s
Located in one of Auckland’s most coveted suburbs, this contemporary residence combines luxury with timeless elegance. Designed to maximise light and warmth, the home enjoys all-day sun. Whether you’re sipping your morning coffee on the patio or taking an afternoon swim in the lap pool, you’ll bask in sunlight throughout the day.
Inside, the design strikes a perfect balance between classic style and modern convenience. Sharp lines, sleek finishes and high-end appliances create a refined atmosphere. A generous study offers a quiet retreat, while the kitchen island invites socialising. With a custom-built bar, the designers undoubtedly created this home with entertainers in mind.