It’s a rare house that finds the line between luxury and experience. At Mataka Station, MAP Architects achieved just that on a spectacular hillside site, devising a complex of three pods connected by covered verandahs rather than interior hallways. The house steps up the hill through multiple levels, tracking all-day sun and capturing spectacular views.

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The house is arranged in a wide U-shape and clad in horizontal cedar weatherboards to accentuate its low, wide form. An open-plan living area along the eastern side looks out to sea, while a sunny covered courtyard with wood-burning fireplace sits to the west. On the ends of the U are bedroom wings – one housing two guest bedrooms and a bathroom, the other housing a primary bedroom, ensuite bathroom and study.

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You enter the property from below, winding your way up past the garage, which also contains a rumpus room and bathroom, before ascending the stairs and coming into the house.

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The views are spectacular at all times of the day. At first light, the sun rises over Motu Kōkako Hole in the Rock; views stretch across the whole of the Bay of Islands. In the afternoon, attention shifts to the west-facing, covered courtyard with its wood-burning fireplace and serene rural views of the station and Mataka mountain.

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Mataka Station is a one-of-a-kind spot, with large landholdings – in this case 22 freehold hectares – leased back to the station, offering the opportunity to experience big-station living without the commitment of running a farm. The property is home to the country’s largest population of kiwi on private land – including two permanently nesting close to the house – and the station features multiple important archaeological sites.

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Owners have the right to roam over the whole property, and share boatsheds, a boat ramp and a beach club – not to mention multiple sheltered beaches. This wonderful house, with established landscaping, is now seeking new owners. The chance of a lifetime.

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Whale Bay Ridge
Mataka Station
Lot 17, Oihi Road, Kerikeri
futureisles.com

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