Wawata Estate is not only on track to become one of New Zealand’s most esteemed and exclusive addresses, the Waiheke enclave is also where some of the country’s best architects are pulling out all the stops to showcase their most inspired and exceptional designs.
The gated subdivision is made up of just 25 parcels of prime land sitting above beautiful Palm Beach. Thirteen out of the 25 have already been sold, with medical professionals, a Hollywood animator and no less than three architects designing and building their forever homes here.
Acclaimed architect Julian Guthrie has just finished his beach house – the first to do so – and is also currently designing his neighbour’s home.
The estate’s natural beauty, dazzling Hauraki Gulf views, privacy and exemplary level of infrastructure already in place were major drawcards for Guthrie, as well as his strong family ties to the island and the fact he’s holidayed there since he was a child.
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“It was exciting to take the opportunity to build something that’s exactly what we wanted. The lots are generously sized, which is important on Waiheke, with great views and excellent proximity to Palm Beach, which I think is the best swimming bay on the island.
“So you can have a swim and get great coffee and food from the little shop there without getting in the car. The subdivision has been done to a standard well above anything else on the island – high quality roading, drainage, water, power, fibre cables, outdoor sculptures and a huge amount of native planting.”
He says a total of five different architects, including himself, are working on jobs that are currently under construction and there are strict covenants and design guidelines in place.
“That was part of the appeal, to maintain both the quality of the builds and to ensure they fit within the landscape – with darker colours, natural materials and deep roof overhangs to make the buildings recede into nature.”
He also shares what a pleasure it’s been to work with local builders. “The whole construction process was enjoyable to be part of and working with the local builders was fantastic.”
Acclaimed architect Julian Guthrie has just finished his beach house – the first to do so – and is now designing his neighbour’s home. Render / Supplied
Guthrie says a total of five different architects, including himself, are working on jobs that are currently under construction in Wawata Estate. Render / Supplied
Matthew Smith, from Ray White Waiheke, has been involved in the estate since it was just a big grass paddock and says it’s been developed to an extraordinary standard and will offer an incredible lifestyle for its esteemed residents.
“You’re not just buying a house site, you’re buying access to a 94-acre park. When you buy your site, you’re only responsible for the building platform and the rest of it has all been planted with over 300,000 native trees.
“The walkways that go through the valleys and wetlands are all being built currently, so there will be 6.5km of walking tracks and private roading.”
In terms of infrastructure, it doesn’t get any better.
“Even the roads are solid concrete and steel, not just asphalt. Residents have a full fibre network all the way from the road to their properties, so when someone builds a house, they can use smart technology to open the gates, check the security cameras and even fill the water tanks, all from their phone remotely.”
He also notes that thanks to the calibre of homes being built, Wawata is a sound investment, now and in the future.
Matthew Smith, from Ray White Waiheke, says: “You’re not just buying a house site, you’re buying access to a 94-acre park.” Render / Supplied
“Even if someone just land-banked the sites, they will increase in value rapidly. There will be more capital appreciation on those sites than anything else on the island because of the houses that are being up around them – worth tens of millions of dollars – and the extensive planting.”
Ross Hawkins, from Ray White Orakei, is working on the project from the mainland and says this is a unique, truly limited edition offering and that the estate is worthy of New Zealand’s best homes.
“The amazing position, between Onetangi and Palm Beach, is probably one of the last subdivisions will happen, because the balance of the island is in substantial farms, which have been purchased to protect the landscape of the island.”
He says a number of overseas buyers interested in lifestyle properties in New Zealand and thinks they should be well received in this development.
“The Government is relaxing rules for overseas buyers and with gated communities with no further subdivision possible within the estate, the outlook is favourable for them.”
Sites at Wawata Estate are sold by price on application, starting from $1.95 million.
- Sponsored by Ray White
