If you haven’t visited the beach town of Whāingaroa Raglan recently, this might be a nice excuse to do so. In recent years, its popularity with the surfer-yogi-wellness set has only intensified. But increasingly, it’s also home to young families, some of whom commute to Kirikiriroa and even Tāmaki Makaurau. At Rangitahi – a new subdivision on the edge of town, with walking paths and design controls – there are some very nice houses going up.

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For our first Waikato Open Home with Dulux, we’re visiting two projects that have featured in the magazine in recent years. First up, there’s Engawa House by Tane Cox, of Red Architecture, which appeared in issue 34. Based loosely on the idea of a Japanese verandah, it’s part surf shack, part pavilion, but 100 percent a family home. Low-lying and arranged around a courtyard, the engawa provides both circulation and living space; thresholds bring you through the house and into private spaces. Boundaries between inside and outside are blurred. This home celebrates the rituals of daily life.

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Around the corner – literally – you’ll find Sisters Sanctuary, designed by Georgia Peacocke, of Edwards White Architects, for herself and her two sisters. Featured in Here 16, it sits somewhere between retreat and full-time home. Cleverly upending suburban conventions, it pulls back from the street, hiding behind a solid brick wall and timber screening. It’s enigmatic, airy, yet welcoming.

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We can’t wait to see you there!

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What:

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Engawa House by Red Architecture and Sisters Sanctuary by Edwards White Architects

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When:

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Saturday 30 May, 2026; sessions from 9.30am

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Tickets:

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$30 (limited numbers!)

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