Bayleys salesperson Dale Sholson says the sheer beauty, privacy and spirit of Coromandel’s Ohui Lodge must be experienced to be believed.
“We spent 11 hours out there filming the video to try and capture the sense of it. It’s a very, very special property and I’m at a loss for words to describe the views,” he says.
Located a 15km drive from Whangamata, the unique 30ha estate embraces the white sand shoreline and is a secluded wonderland of flora and fauna.
Atop the land and at its heart is a collection of buildings, each with lush “living roofs” that comprise the main house, purpose-built recording studio and a pool house complete with a resort-style saltwater pool.
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Beneath lies a natural wonderland of expansive grassed areas, native bush, an outdoor stage and direct beach access, which has played host to many festivals, wellness retreats and gatherings over the years. The property is owned by the White family, who purchased it in 2016 when they were looking for something a bit different and a business opportunity.
“We looked for seven years, then came across Ohui, it was not like anything we’d ever seen,” says Tim White.
“The property was built for Tom Meijer around 2000, he ran festivals in Holland and had a pancake restaurant. Apparently, it was based on a yurt – he had a clear vision for the place.”
Meijer was inspired by his travels to India and enlisted the help of Ian Burrow and Alan Drayton, who specialised in ecological builds, to bring his creation to life. “The living roofs are a Dutch thing and not uncommon in Holland. Apparently, there’s 40 tonnes of dirt on the roof.”
The home is magnificent, with a circular glass roof at its apex and the structure formed with recycled ex-Transpower poles crafted from spotted gum and blackbutt from New South Wales, Australia.
The home is magnificent, with a circular glass roof at its apex. Photo / Supplied
The owners have undertaken a major conservation and regeneration project on the property. Photo / Supplied
The separate recording studio also has accommodation and provides an inspiring environment for creativity. Photo / Supplied
Crisp white sculptural walls, warm timber and a profusion of glass create a calming sanctuary, with breathtaking views stretching across rolling farmland, offshore islands and the endless coastline.
The separate recording studio also has accommodation and provides an inspiring environment for creativity, as well as connection. As well as modernising and maintaining the buildings, the Whites have undertaken a major conservation and regeneration project on the property.
“The main focus has been clearing the grounds. We’ve removed about 3000 wilding pines and about 30 tonnes of rubbish. I’d like to see the regeneration complete. It should be pohutukawa and natives all over the place. It’s so unspoiled out there. The bulk of it’s been done but the job needs to be finished.”
He explains that the family had visions of the property becoming a luxury boutique wedding venue, with space for glamping down below and endless options for photoshoots. It was also utilised as a place to channel creativity and inspiration.
“We hosted the Red Bull Songwriters Retreat in 2019. Four American music producers came out, including Ant Clemons and Atia ‘Ink’ Boggs, who co-wrote and produced tracks for Beyonce. They set up multiple recording studios – I’m a photographer and did a whole book on it.”
“The living roofs are a Dutch thing ... apparently, there’s 40 tonnes of dirt on the roof,” says the owner. Photo / Supplied
The property was built for Tom Meijer around 2000, where he hosted festivals, wellness retreats and events over the years. Photo / Supplied
Covid thwarted the family’s plans to continue with smaller corporate events and weddings, so they’re now ready to hand over to the next custodian.
Tim says that being there is an almost spiritual experience and the landscape is truly magnificent.
“A lot of people feel a deep connection to the land, it has the most profound effect on them. I’ve been a photographer for 35 years and people keep asking me, ‘why do you keep taking the same picture?’ Because every day it’s different! It’s extraordinarily beautiful.”
Sholson says this Ohui Lodge will be a haven for someone who seeks space and privacy.
“It’s a sanctuary and it’s a unique opportunity to enjoy the best of both worlds. Having an outstanding build at the top whilst having your own oasis at the lower part of the property. The natural features of the property are mesmerising.”
750 and 742 Ohui Road in Opoutere, Thames-Coromandel, is for sale by tender, deadline October 1.
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