With breathtaking views, incredible architecture and isolated locations, these spectaular properties in the Queenstown-Lakes area offer the most luxurious lifestyle
Recent world events have brought the notion of a retreat sharply into focus. The Queenstown–Lakes area of the South island has always been known for its prized properties offering the ultimate luxury homes for the perfect getaway experience.
Here is our pick of some of the spectacular properties on the market at the moment.
1. Centre stage
Designed by boutique architectural firm Davitzki Brown this sleek Kelvin Heights modern home makes the most of its exceptional position with the Remarkables, Coronet Peak and Lake Wakatipu centre stage.
The L-shaped open-plan living and kitchen opens to a broad covered terrace, right on the water, with a heated plunge pool.
The home cinema, massive glass wine cellar and entertainer’s kitchen make for luxury living.
2. Pure serenity
This modern stone Lake Hayes home envelopes you in a feeling of serenity as soon as you walk in.
Architect Andrew Patterson has kept things pared back with slate floors and oak-panelled walls, and intimate spaces highlight the spectacular views.
Sit round the outdoor fire, lounge on the spacious deck and marvel at your extraordinary surroundings, or pamper yourself in one of the elegant bedroom suites.
3. Sophisticated style
The spectacular surrounding scenery is on show in every room of this sophisticated Lake Hayes property.
The extensive living opens out to the views of mountains and the lake with effortless indoor/outdoor flow to the bespoke swimming pool area with sauna, deck with cosy firepit and entertainer’s glass atrium.
This 700m2 home has a sense of grandeur that complements the dramatic landscape beyond and offers state-of-the-art living close to Arrowton and Millbrook.
4. Handcrafted home
The massive wooden beams that form the backbone of this unique Wanaka home on the banks of the Clutha River give it a distinct personality very much in keeping with the majesty of its surroundings.
The log home was handcrafted in Canada and shipped to New Zealand and the interior finishes of Canadian western red cedar are just as dramatic as the façade.
The spacious home includes a double-height Grand Room with stone fireplace, billiards room, two kitchens, and fabulous views out over the peaceful landscape. Close to Wanaka and the ski fields, there’s also a massive garage for all the toys.
5. Amazing vista
Floating high above Lake Wakatipu, the living area of this streamlined home makes the most of its commanding position with views framed to take your breath away.
On the other side it opens to a courtyard with fireplace that looks through to the views beyond too, making a perfect sheltered area for outdoor entertaining.
Parents are spoilt by a ‘penthouse’ master suite that expands over the whole top floor. Relax in the ensuite bath with a glass of wine at the end of the day and soak up the amazing vista.
6. Jaw-dropping
This impressive home designed by Mason & Wales architects sits perfectly in the jaw-dropping landscape with views of the Greenstone and Dart Rivers, over Lake Wakatipu to the Humboldt Ranges.
The expansive living area embraces the fantastic outlook and opens to the landscaped grounds and cantilevered spa pool.
A sensational separate master suite, elegant guest bedrooms and bunk room offer plenty of flexibility. So much serenity only a 40-minute drive from Queenstown.
7. Gorgeous living
Revel in the shifting light as you look out over the picture-postcard setting of this exceptional Glenorchy home.
Everything has been thought of here to deliver the ultimate leisure package, from the gorgeous living area that opens to an extensive outdoor entertaining area, to the luxurious bedrooms and entertainers’ kitchen.
As well as the freehold 3ha, there’s shared ownership of a further 89ha offering hiking, trout fishing and a lakefront clubhouse.
8. Romantic getaway
This delightful stone home has a real Continental ambience with its intimate rooms, meticulous attention to bespoke details, lavender-filled courtyard with fireplace and pretty windows and
French doors that open to panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the mountains beyond. Sited on Closeburn Station it has a wonderful romantic charm that is perfect for the ultimate getaway.
There’s also a self-contained guest cottage.
Words by: Sarah Beresford.