Dreaming big: Our favourite luxury homes currently on the market

“It was a toss-up between this darling Parnell place or a sprawling estate with a private jetty in Russell. But that was accessible only by boat or helicopter, and since I don’t love flying in choppers, the Edwardian terrace house in Parnell won out. 

“In any case, I like cities and need close proximity to my favourite shops and cafes. It was the combination of the Parnell house’s roughcast exterior and heritage good looks combined with grand proportions, sunny courtyard and sweet secret garden with a lawn that even I could manage mowing that sealed the deal. It’s also been beautifully restored inside, so no DIY.”

– Fiona Hawtin, Editor

“The brief for my dream home? Water views, ultra-modern but still warm and inviting. This modern three-bedroom abode ticks all the boxes. It’s not some grand mansion but instead a sleek and sexy spot that offers plenty of space, as well as cosy spots to come together. The floor-to-ceiling glazed windows might put some people off, but I love feeling amongst the hustle and bustle of the street – not to mention feeling that I could step out straight into the ocean. I love the warm neutral tones, marble and use of wood throughout this house – with just the right pop of colour in that green bathroom. Fabulous. 

“If I lived in this house, I would spend all my time lying on the outdoor couch, drinking champagne and watching the waves roll in. Too much to drink and can’t walk up the stairs? Not a problem – I’ll take the elevator.”

– Sarah Templeton, Shopping Editor

“As a mid-century architecture buff, I would be non-stop bidding for this home until the auctioneer finally hit the gavel to the podium. Architect Ron Sang designed some incredible homes in Auckland, which always garner the attention of home enthusiasts whenever they pop up on the market, kind of like the ultimate collector’s item. This one, on the edge of Parnell, feels miles away from the city despite its address. It’s the best of both worlds, living in the city yet feeling like you’re hidden away in the bush. It’s zen, it’s functional, and it’s oh-so chic.”

– Katie Delany, Senior Digital Content Producer

“I have never been a Shore kid, but this stunning villa in Devonport has me reconsidering my postcode. It’s right next to Cheltenham Beach (one of the best city beaches in Tamaki Makaurau), and filled with gorgeous heritage details that I would absolutely preserve. The home is solid kauri and was built in the 1910s, perfectly suited to my lifelong desire to flutter about a heritage house dressed as an Edwardian ghost. The rustic kitchen is divine – the pot rack is a feature I think we should bring into the modern home. I’m imagining installing floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, colour-drenching rooms and hosting themed soirees in the huge back garden. Should I start buying antique furniture just in case?”

– Bryony Smmonds-Smith, Content Producer

“This house ticks all my boxes. It’s near the beach, there is a pool and only a max of two floors.

“I love how big the kitchen is, and the marble splashback is so beautiful. The indoor-outdoor flow is what sold this house to me. Entertaining in summer would be a dream, with weekend day pool parties leading into warm BBQ evenings. Even in winter, you could set out there with a glass of red wine and the fire going, how lush!”

– Angela Wei, Senior Commercial Brand Manager

“I absolutely love the location and spaciousness of this home. An infinity pool and bath with views like this, as well as a tennis court and plenty of lawn space, is a once-in-a-lifetime find. I really can’t picture a better space to raise a family in. It’s located right on Remuera Road, so stores, restaurants, schools and motorways are easily accessible (for the occasional time I’d actually want to leave this house). I feel like you could also have the kids playing while you host your girlfriends for a ladies’ night without being disrupted by the chaos and noise they cause because the hosting potential is unreal! Take your friends poolside, up to the balcony, into the massive living room or around the open kitchen island. I really can’t think of anything I’d like to change.”

– Mae MacDonald, Digital Content Producer