Can’t beat it on a good day: Some of the best homes Wellington has to offer

1 Parliament Street, Thorndon

This home’s address may have you thinking of politicians arguing in the parliamentary chamber, but thankfully, there’s some distance between the house and the Beehive. However, you’ll be rubbing shoulders with powerful neighbours, with Premier House just across the road.

Perched above the street, this house overlooks the heritage villas of Thorndon and out to Taranaki Hill. Its position provides year-round sun, bringing light into well-appointed living spaces both inside and out.

18 Huia Road, Days Bay, Eastbourne

Expect the unexpected at this incredible home. Nestled above Days Bay with sweeping harbour views, it stands proudly like a castle among the surrounding canopy. The journey into this home begins from the forest floor, leading to a landing platform that offers the first glimpse of the wonders inside.

Step inside the kitchen with a soaring 3.8m ceiling, complete with high-end lighting, premium appliances and bespoke cabinetry. Adjacent to the space is the dining room, which glows under the conservatory-style roof. Sets of doors open onto the expansive decking and a generous al fresco dining area, perfect for entertaining.

The first secret reveals itself in the separate lounge where a hidden door leads to the top level. This light-filled space currently serves as a library and yoga studio, but offers the perfect setting for a creative studio.

57 Roxburgh Street, Mount Victoria

Here, you have everything: contemporary design, effortless comfort, incredible views, and a sought-after location. This classic white villa is on the edge of Mount Victoria and Oriental Bay, between the beach and the best hospitality the city has to offer. The house is positioned to maximise privacy, natural light, and views, creating an ever-changing spectacle of the harbour below.

This home isn’t all about the vista. Inside, you’ll discover a thoughtful layout, clean architectural lines and premium finishes. Walk through to the sun-drenched designer kitchen, dining and living area, and out to the outdoor space, complete with a fully-fenced grass lawn that’d be perfect for kids to play. Upstairs, two bedrooms and a main suite capture the afternoon sun.

12 Easdale Street, Kelburn

One of Wellington’s early industrialists designed and built this home in the 1930s, beginning a rich and notable history. In 1946, the French government purchased the property, transforming it into the French Embassy and later the ambassador’s residence. The current owners purchased the home in 2000 and lovingly revived it as a warm and comfortable family home.

Since the turn of the century, the owners have carried out extensive renovations to transform the home for modern living. They seismically strengthened the house, added four bedrooms and updated both the family kitchen and games room. From the generous living rooms to the wine cellar, every space reflects the house’s unique history and character, making this a truly special property, ready for its next chapter.

64A Orangi Kaupapa Road, Northland

Perched on the edge of a cliff above the Wellington Botanic Gardens, this home defies gravity with striking modern architecture and engineering. It delivers all the perks of a penthouse apartment, without the body corporate. Spanning four levels, all accessible via a sleek glass elevator, the home offers rare drive-on access to an internal garage and a flexible, well-designed layout. Four bedrooms are thoughtfully spread across the levels, each featuring expansive windows that invite the outdoors in and welcome regular visits from tui, kererū, and kākā.

Tech enthusiasts will love the smart features woven into this home. Voice-activated Alexa controls, Bluetooth-enabled lighting, and a keyless entry system (among many other innovations), ensure the house works effortlessly work for you.

83 Hatton Street, Karori

Calling all tennis pros (and amateurs, of course)! This charming home, tucked away in Karori, is the private lifestyle retreat we all dream of. Down a discreet driveway, the reimagined residence unfolds. Recently rebuilt to an uncompromising standard, this residence is defined by its generous proportions and refined sense of comfort.

The floor plan, with four large double bedrooms and three separate living zones, is expansive and adaptable. Amenities include a wine cellar, media lounge and gym, all of which would be better enjoyed after a few tennis matches. A self-contained cottage on the property would be ideal for guests or independent teenagers. Move in, and feel right at home.

6 Orangi Kaupapa Road, Northland

Charming villas like this one often line the suburban streets of Te Whanganui-a-Tara. This double-storied and double-bay beauty has undergone a meticulous renovation that blends contemporary comfort with timeless character. The freshly repaired and repainted exterior makes an immediate impression, while inside, carefully preserved heritage details sit in perfect harmony with modern upgrades.

With three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a brand new open plan kitchen, this home is ready for a family to move in and make it their own. Across the road from the Wellington Botanic Garden, the location is ideal for family life.

65 Marine Parade, Seatoun

Just across the road from the beach, this home feels miles away from the city. Looking out to Pencarrow Head, this home the the epitome of coastal living. The beautifully renovated 1920s single-level home spreads over 180 square metres, while letting light in at every corner. Enjoy the harbour views from the living room, or head into the dining room and admire the outlook of the perfectly landscaped garden.

The designers maximised the home’s beachside location to ensure you can enjoy the outdoors in any weather. Sun’s out? Jump off the pier or take out a kayak to explore the coastline. Alternatively, when the wind becomes a bit too much, store the gear in the garage and invite friends around to warm up around the open fire.