Some of New Zealand’s most expensive homes are out to impress, from darling villas in Auckland’s Herne Bay to vast country estates looking over Lake Wakatipu.
If you love real estate as much as we do, one of your favourite pastimes may be perusing through property listings online. For those who dare to dream (and filter listings from the most, to least expensive) the houses currently listed around the country offer the ultimate insight into how the one per cent may live.
What everyone classifies as a ‘dream home’ is entirely subjective, but if helipads and panoramic views of the Bay of Plenty spring to mind, you’ll love what we’ve put together.
Some of the most luxurious, most expensive New Zealand homes
1. One of Waiheke’s most exclusive estates
POA at Bayleys
As you first pass through the gated entrance of this gated abode, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to your own private sanctuary. The breathtaking views are only the beginning. The meticulously crafted residence boasts European elegance in an extraordinary setting.
Entertaining here is a breeze, with an open-plan living and dining room, and an epicurean kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances. Outside you will find a pizza oven and barbeque looking out to the views. Alternatively, retreat to the underground cellar with a full bar space.
The grounds of this estate are also out to impress, with landscaped gardens, a unique French glasshouse, two private walled courtyards, and off course, a private beach. What more could you ask for?
2. Paradise on a Mission
CV: $19,850,000 at Wall Real Estate
This modern, luxury home above Auckland’s Mission Bay is a masterclass in solid concrete architecture. Its north-facing orientations and 980 metres of space is just the cherry on top of the incredible features of this space. The seven-car garage, tennis court, pool, spa, wine cellar and library make this place a true haven, whether it’s for entertaining friends and family or relaxing on a Sunday afternoon.
3. A Central Otago Oasis
CV: $19,950,000 at Millbrook
This home may open to its surroundings to make the most of the incredible views, but it is exceptionally private. The epitome of luxury and sophistication, the home opens out to views of Lake Hayes and the Remarkables Mountain range but also brings the outside in. The impressive mix of schist stone pavilions, slate floors and aged larch wood.
This place is perfect for an art collector too. The entry doors have been imported from Rajasthan and set the scene for the detailed home. Corridors provide a blank canvas for artwork to be displayed but do not compete with the stunning surroundings.
4. A slice of a legacy
POA at Sotheby’s
This home looks as if it’s been plucked right out of a movie. Set in an exclusive gated enclave, the historic yet impeccably modernised home enjoys direct access to the sands of Karaka Bay Beach. Wake up to the sound of the waves lapping at the shore and enjoy your morning brew on your private balcony.
The grand residence features six bedrooms, seven bathrooms, and seven garage spaces, designed to entertain family and friends for lavish entertaining and serene relaxation.
5. Synchronicity on Roys Penninsula
POA at Bayleys
Dubbed ‘the edge of the world’, this slice of absolute paradise is a perfect collaboration between the natural environment and considered architectural design. Designed by Fearon Hay, the concept was to design a modern-day shepherd’s hut, purposely pared-back to let the lake and mountains shine.
The home is on a secluded 23.8-hectare site, the muted cedar, glass and concrete home sits quietly on the hillside, in utter privacy away from other signs of human habitation. With two master suites with twin sitting rooms, two bathrooms (with Japanese onsen-style baths), an open plan living room and a dining area with an indoor-outdoor kitchen, you’ll feel right at home here.
6. Palatial Luxury on Paritai Drive
$19,500,000 at Sotheby’s International Realty
World-class city and harbour views? That’s just the cherry on top of this incredible 823 sqm architectural masterpiece. Inspired by the most exclusive hotels around the world, its inspired use of rare materials makes this home a functional piece of art and a dream for entertainers.
Renowned architects Young and Richards brought the concept of this home to life, using solid concrete and full-height glass, providing unique views of Auckland. From the tapware to the wardrobes, every detail has been hand-selected for form and function. Not to mention the six-car garage, gym, bunker, elevator and spa=like bathrooms.
7. Copper Top Sanctuary on Waiheke Island
$9,800,000 at Sotheby’s International Realty
Welcome to paradise, AKA this private one-hectare sanctuary designed by Glamuzina Architects. This heavenly space provides breathtaking views Matiatia Harbour, Motutapu, the Noises, and even the Auckland mainland, all while blending seamlessly with its natural surroundings.
Known affectionately as the ‘Copper Top’, this property is expertly fitted out for entertaining and relaxing. Unwind in the pool or spa and watch over the expansive decking and lush lawns.
On site, there are also two self-contained spaces, a guest studio and a caretaker cottage, perfect as independent accommodation for guests or staff. There is also a large shed, which would be suitable for either a boat or workshop, as well as two-car garaging attached to the main house.
8. Quiet Luxury
$9,720,000 at Oliver Road
This is the type of home we just know Martha Stewart would adore. Rooftop garden? Tick. A greenhouse? Tick. Environmentally sympathetic landscaping? Tick tick tick. This epic property, established on a private 6,500 sqm estate blends ultra-contemporary, quiet luxury interiors, striking exterior structure with resort-like recreational facilities.
This house appeals to those who won’t settle for second best. Even the productive garden (with a high-tech greenhouse) has been used by local award-winning restaurants for sustainable paddock-to-plate cuisine.
9. Auckland’s Answer to the White House
CV: $8,700,700 at Boulgaris Realty
You don’t get many homes like this anymore. This fully renovated, double-storey villa would be the purchase of a lifetime, especially since the past owners held onto it for over 45 years. Known as the ‘White House’ to locals, the home sits on the crest of Mount Hobson, providing uninterrupted views of the city, all the way out to the Waitakere Ranges.
The magnificent outdoor pool is one feature of this home that sells itself, with a bathroom and changing rooms, a spa house and a barbeque entertaining area, all with astounding, panoramic views of Auckland. How could you say no?
10. A world-class equestrian estate in Coatesville, Auckland
$6,250,000 at Harcourts
Influenced by the manors of the Mediterranean, this jewel of Auckland real estate offers elegance and luxury. This home will excite any equestrian enthusiast. The facilities include horse stables as well as a full-sized Olympic arena.
For your family and guests, there is also a tennis court, putting green, a self-contained studio and a heated pool, offering a remarkable oasis.
11. A glass home on the edge of a million-dollar view
$7,490,000 at Sotherby’s International Realty
Capturing 270-degree views of the ocean, from Whanaparoa to Rangitoto Island, this incredible home will not disappoint. Despite the floor-to-ceiling glass walls, this home’s clifftop location ensures privacy, while maximising the Hauraki Gulf views.
Fearon Hay designed the house in 2006. It’s a homage to unique Japanese style and traditions, offering elegance, functionality and stark design. With four generous bedrooms on two levels, a heated lap pool, and incredibly landscaped lawns, you could enjoy many summers sitting here. Put your feet up and take in the sun rises.
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