SEEDS OF SUCCESS

This locally owned building company is proving that people-first values and precision quality can transform the construction game.

WORDS NICKY ADAMS | PHOTOS KATIE COX + SUPPLIED

Sitting down with Flowerday Homes directors Rik and Fiona Flowerday, along with general manager Daren Green, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Flowerday Homes is an anomaly in many ways — unlike many of the other big-hitting builders, Flowerday Homes is not a franchise and has kept its sole base as Tauranga. The company reach, however, is far beyond the Bay.

In the 2024 financial year they were the 27th largest builder in New Zealand and the fourth in the Bay of Plenty by number of building consents issued. This current year sees the ongoing construction of Te Mania, a master-planned subdivision in Te Puke, developed and built by Flowerday Homes. Rik and Fi continue to head up the business they started together in 2014 with the same joint vision today that they had at inception — that they would operate a building company that is, in Rik’s words, “building homes, enriching lives and creating communities.”

The ethos may be the same, but there has been enormous change within the company. They laugh reflectively when Rik admits that “many and expensive” mistakes have been made along the way. But the learning curve has brought them to the place they are now, which is one with a focused lead in Daren Green, and an incredibly high-performing and loyal team. With the additions to their dedicated staff of Brendyn Gray and Mark Hooper, both of whom have extensive industry experience of 20 and 18 years respectively, they also consider contractors and subbies — the majority of whom have consistently worked for them for 10 years — as part of the operation.

2 Spiralis Close

Riding high from the prestigious 2025 Master Builder House of the Year awards, where Flowerday Homes entered two houses (one won Gold, the other won both Gold and a Regional Category) they are collectively clearly excited not just by the accolade but by the judge’s surmise.

Fi shows me the brochure, which states: “What stands out most is the care taken with the build. Every detail has been handled with focus and precision. The result is a home that not only meets the brief but is delivered to a very high standard.”

This, they all agree, is validation of exactly what they strive for on each and every build. As Daren puts it, “If I could, I would say to all clients that every house we build, whether it be a 120sqm dwelling or a 350sqm design and build, our quality and attention to detail does not change. And that’s through a rigorous process that our construction team has set up, and working closely with our sub-contractors who have a gold standard on everything they do.”

Achieving this kind of precision quality across such a vast number of builds is not just good luck. Fi, Rik and Daren have worked tirelessly from the ground up to instill systems and processes, as well as values within the team, to ensure there is no margin for error.

As Fi explains, “We’ve spent a lot of time working on our company core values.” These, Rik says, are: “Honesty, Empathy, Accountability, Respect and Trust — an acronym of HEART — which is at the core of everything we do.”

These values have always been there, but the company has realised the importance of articulating them, which in turn says Daren, “ensures they are delivered on a consistent basis.”

Both Rik and Fi credit Daren with developing and leading the culture of the company to an extent that it’s known that Flowerday Homes is a good place to be a client, as well as a good place to work. There’s an emphasis on staff wellbeing, which is wrapped up within the stringent health and safety measures.

As Fi notes, wellness and mental health are a big part of overall health, in what can be a high-stress industry. Fi reflects on the fact that the cultural shift has led to a more cohesive team not just on the job, but also in leisure time.

“We’ve got a social club, and we do fun activities together. In the office we have lunch around the table and the girls go for a walk afterwards. I enjoy coming to the office, there’s a good vibe here.”

Rik agrees: “It’s not just because we have a fruit bowl and drinks on a Friday — it’s an alignment of our values, which impact every decision we make as a business internally and externally.”

The key word they all agree on — in relation to both staff and clients — is communication. As Fi points out: “Everyone knows their job and what they do. We used to have quite blurred lines, and now it’s a very well oiled machine… Communication is prioritised internally and externally, so there’s lots of comms with clients. From experience we know the thing that people love when they’re building houses is to hear from their builder all the time. But we’re also rigorous on internal comms with one another.”

Daren agrees: “We’ve set up a structure that every staff member in the business contributes to how the model functions. Every person has a voice, and with this system no comment or question goes unnoticed.”

Fi rounds off: “There’s a lack of bureaucracy because we’re not a franchise — we can do what we want. We’re a nimble business.”

Internal streamlining and cohesiveness are reflected in client liaison and satisfaction, which, they comment proudly, is excellent.

As Fi says, “We’ll spend as much time as the client wants or needs — there’s never a rush, it’s always at your own pace. Once things are consented, our construction team takes over. Their allocated project manager will call them regularly and send detailed site reports with updates and photos. They also have access to the BuilderTrend app, which has a live schedule.”

In addition to their goal of absolute customer satisfaction, Flowerday Homes has invested heavily into the concept of sustainability within the building process.

Fi explains: “We’ve got a really keen eye on sustainability — we’re always looking at how to reduce, recycle, repurpose. Te Mania gave us a unique opportunity to break old habits of ‘everything goes in the bin.’ As the sole builder on site, with all trades part of our team, we could educate everyone and shift the culture as we work toward a goal of zero waste.”

Te Mania Point

With so much positivity around Te Mania, both in terms of the process and the outcome, the natural next step for Flowerday Homes is to bring focus to their Design and Build (D&B) arm.

In many ways this feels like going back to grass roots, but with a more experienced and empowered team. The addition of Mark Hooper, who specialises in D&B, and is well known for his expertise, lends them even more gravitas. Each of them is really excited about the creative opportunities that D&B brings — and, they point out, the builders love it too. There is so much scope in this area, not just with products but with the freedom of designs; Daren is emphatic when it comes to what Flowerday Homes brings to this arena.

“If I take my Flowerday hat off, and say right — I’m going to build my dream house tomorrow, I would 100 percent deal with this business, because of the attention to detail, quality and customer focus ethos.”

On a personal basis Daren is highly motivated by delivering results clients can be proud of and by team success.

“What drives me is getting the best out of people. Getting the right people on the bus is an important first step. We have that.”

Rik, on the other hand, is fired up by the big picture. “That’s what inspires me. Te Mania has this old-school community feel — kids wandering from home to the park, neighbours out and about. Seeing that come to life is something I’m really proud of.”

Fiona is passionate about ensuring the brand stands by the strong values that it has been built on from day one. The common ground, as Daren surmises, is on what they deliver: “Quality is in our DNA.”

FLOWERDAYHOMES.CO.NZ

GRANDEUR

This timeless home blends Victorian grace with modern luxury on five peaceful acres.

WORDS JO FERRIS

Entering the sweeping driveway of this Pyes Pa estate, you could be forgiven for thinking this manor was born in a past era of opulence and genteel lifestyle.

That’s partly true. The home certainly exudes the magnificence of bygone history. Except for one key point. It was developed in 2009; designed, built and fashioned by an English couple with a vision to recreate American Victorian architecture.

The current owners are only the second family to cherish the lifestyle and extraordinary detail of this unique home. Exploring its depth takes time, such is the scrupulous attention to intricate elements and fittings imported from around the world.

In developing this five-acre landscape, it was important for the home and garden to be equal partners. Both are integral to the estate’s mystique. Its enchanting tranquillity embraces rolling lawns, mature specimens, fruit trees, table grapes, an exquisite wisteria-clad bower, and two kitchen gardens.

Chickens have departed as these owners prepare for their next venture; but the run and free-range lifestyle begs new occupants; just like the house. Sitting centre stage within this idyllic landscape; it is majestic — true reverence to the vision behind its creation.

Expansive at around 706sqm — living areas and amenities dominate the ground floor with five bedrooms and bathrooms above. Stepping into the atrium welcome, it’s clear from the outset that every aspect of this home revolves around space, scale and soaring ceilings. The bespoke kitchen and casual dining hub sit to one side, before stepping into a family lounge, or formal dining room, if you choose. That’s the joy of this home. Every room is its own entity, while offering personal preference for its use.

That’s the other aspect to absorb here. While there is a common thread, with wainscoting wall panels and Burmese ironwood timber flooring; no ceiling is the same, no architrave, cornice, light fitting, door hardware or window treatment. Lead-light panes, designed specifically for each room, feature different patterns and tones; the most romantic seen in the master bathroom, above the shower.

Of the five bedrooms, three have ensuites, customised accordingly, with imported vanities, mirrors, lighting, and Victorian claw-foot baths in two. The fourth bedroom has semi-ensuite privilege with the family bathroom, and is shared with the fifth bedroom. Storage throughout is phenomenal — dressing rooms, closets and utility rooms all highlight their relevance to this home’s status.

A dedicated study, cinema room, billiard room and reception lounge complete the home downstairs, each personalised with purpose. Of all the intricate details that amaze, the turret housing the reception lounge and primary bedroom above both feature ceiling styles modelled on the shape of British 50-pence coin.

The wrap-around verandah overlooking the pool was also masterfully designed, with shade in summer, sun in winter and windows escaping the rain. The detail everywhere is infinite, right to the four-bay garage. With significant space for vehicles and work, its vast attic is one of the final surprises.

Or is it the resort swimming pool? With an outdoor shower, pool house, changing rooms and powder room, this pool holds its own secret — capturing water for irrigation. Solar panels and battery storage provide free power, with the excess sold to the grid. Robotic mowers groom lawns like velvet. A three-bay American barn offers further storage, while two gated entrances ensure security.

Truly a masterpiece of historical homage, fashioned with all today’s modern features, this is a rare invitation to a cherished lifestyle. A rural aspect on the city fringe — three minutes to an international Cambridge curriculum school, handy to one-stop shopping at The Crossing and easy drives to the airport and expressways. City and lifestyle in one.

866 Pyes Pa Rd, Pyes Pa

OLIVERROADBAYOFPLENTY.COM

THE BEACON

Commanding an expansive site on Ongare Point, this exceptional home stands proudly above its neighbours in this peaceful seaside enclave above Tauranga Harbour.

WORDS JO FERRIS

Set on a private ridge with gated entry, the residence is the result of a thoughtful collaboration between the owner, designer Richard Fuller and award-winning builder Belco Homes.

With deep family ties to the land, the owners paid homage to its history by salvaging native rimu from the original homestead — now reimagined as a stunning feature wall and bureau in the family room.

While this sentimental touch celebrates the heritage that inspired the new residence, this property also showcases what can be achieved today when space, design and craftsmanship unite in perfect harmony.

The master retreat is a true sanctuary, with sumptuous space and a grandstand balcony overlooking the harbour. Generous living zones on the lower level are designed for seamless indoor-outdoor flow, perfect for entertaining or quiet enjoyment.

Serve refreshments and nibbles through sliding windows in the bespoke kitchen to the courtyard. Host friends in the sunny ambience of the games’ room. Enjoy alfresco entertainment outdoors, dine formally inside or relax fireside in the family living area.

Moods change to a more intimate ambience in the formal lounge. For ultimate unwinding however, sway gently in the innovative hanging furniture in the sheltered outdoor lounge.

Occupying a sprawling 5,529sqm site, the home extends across 451sqm over two levels. This is complemented by extensive shedding, a swimming pool and tennis court, yet still boasts ample space for recreation and relaxation in the beautifully landscaped grounds.

Every aspect of this home revolves around its breathtaking scenery. Sweeping harbour views capture Bowentown Heads, Matakana Island and beyond to Mauao and Mount Maunganui.

Each room enjoys a unique outlook; whether coastal or countryside. Offering four bedrooms, each enjoys its own ensuite, while a powder room increases convenience for guests.

Apart from the internal garage, substantial shedding provides further space for vehicles, storage or workshop use. This is complemented by a separate garden shed for tools and equipment.

Luxury and practicality combine through a host of high-spec features, both inside and out. These include advanced heating systems and a state-of-the-art sound system to robotic pool and lawn maintenance.

A home for the seasons and generations; this property is truly the jewel of Ongare Point — a rare opportunity to secure a landmark coastal resident of enduring quality, privacy and prestige.

300 Ongare Point Rd, Ongare Point

OLIVERROADBAYOFPLENTY.COM

TIMBER WITH A CONSCIENCE

A centuries-old Japanese timber tradition brings sustainable beauty to Tauranga’s newest design showroom.

WORDS JO FERRIS / PHOTOS SALINA GALVAN + SUPPLIED

Centuries’ old Japanese philosophy and unique timber is catching eyes with the opening of a brand-new showroom in Tauranga’s Piccadilly Arcade. Sugi is Japanese cedar.

As a construction material, cedar isn’t new in this country. What makes yakisugi — charred Japanese cedar — unique, is the extraordinary effects created in various profiles; both as exterior cladding and internal elements.

Architects and builders have used sugi in several homes in this region. However, the product has sat relatively under the radar. Pentarch Forest Products is the New Zealand arm of Australian company Pentarch Forestry, one of Australia’s largest suppliers of hardwood. Its new showroom introduces this unique timber in a variety of forms and finishes.

Yakisugi isn’t simply cedar. It is an artform; complex in its simplicity, visually striking, durable and healthier.

Pentarch imports manager Margerita de Kwant says sugi is timber with a conscience. When you understand its history in Japanese culture over thousands of years, it’s easy to appreciate its place in New Zealand; as designers, builders and homeowners seek more eco-friendly products.

Pentarch imports manager Margerita de Kwant

With about 68 percent of Japan covered in forests, thoughtful stewardship involves careful planting; harvests timed to maintain forest health, while reducing waste and minimising transport impacts.

Thanks to Japan’s efficient marine freight, Margerita says the carbon footprint of shipping is on a par with sourcing other materials. With sugi sustainably grown in Japan and processed in New Zealand, it is an affordable alternative.

The secret lies in yakisugi’s making. Through a highly-controlled fire process, yakisugi achieves stronger durability in minutes — involving intense kiln drying and removing the need for chemical stains or synthetic paints.

Thanks to Pentarch’s association with Motueka-based Natural House Company, its range of natural oils — comprising earth pigments and beeswax — enhance sugi’s healthier aesthetics and striking tones. This, on top of the various profiles themselves. Defying logic, the fully charred, black surface provides the highest durability and thermal quality, as evidenced in the ancient shrines of Japan, according to Margerita.

As the timber is brushed to create differing effects, the result is not only artistic, it’s three-dimensional when viewed in different lights and angles. Against varying backdrops, colours also appear to change.

Depending on location, external cladding’s maintenance reduces as years pass; making yakisugi even more cost-effective. Internally, its use is limitless — wall panelling, battens, screens, architraves — even furniture. Stepping inside Pentarch’s showroom in Piccadilly Arcade is like entering a whole new world in construction and interior design.

PENTARCH.CO.NZ

A LA MODE

A tropical escape beneath Mauao’s gaze, this Mount home is a bold masterpiece of imagination and indulgence.

WORDS JO FERRIS

It’s hard to conceive a property like this even exists in Mount Maunganui’s blue-chip neck at the foot of Mauao; let alone one that transports you to a place of tropical indulgence. Knowing it’s the vision of a local business couple, it becomes apparent. This home is a work of art — a complex story, layered with mystique.

Hidden from the road and seemingly lost against a backdrop of high-rise towers; once inside, everything disappears. Apart from Mauao, of course. That’s one feature that should always be revered in this part of town. And revered it is, thanks to a wall of glazing in the lounge framing this iconic landmark, around to Pilot Bay.

Given a 230sqm, narrow site, wedged between a low-rise apartment complex and the house in front, a multi-level home was the only logical concept.

Tauranga architect Mark Carnachan worked to a brief that maximised sun, space and outlooks, while minimising views of neighbouring high-rises. The result is extraordinary — a multi-level home that defies any limitations of a tight spot.

The depth, tone, texture and ways each zone interacts is absorbing; the sense of seclusion, immersive. At its lowest point, a self-contained studio allows bespoke accommodation for family or guests. With both a lift and stairwell access, the home rises through five, split-levels in what is essentially four stories.

With the studio tucked below ground level, it shares access with a private, tropical garden — a complete surprise; with its spa-pool, designer seating and surreal vibe.

Every aspect of this home is a revelation, each level their own entity, yet linked in intimate ways. The gourmet kitchen, with its soaring, 7m black ceiling is pure magic. Flowing out to an alfresco lounge, screened above and to the side with motorised louvres and sliding doors, the tropics again come to mind.

Connection with the lounge and dining room a few steps above is genius, the sloping ceiling and glass balustrade create a marriage of perfection. And that’s part of this home’s intrigue. Spaces are partitioned to create sensory connections, while flowing one to the other.

The ultimate luxury sits in the master retreat on the upper level, a bedroom and snug of velvety romance and bathroom of sheer indulgence, thanks to its twin showers and steam sauna. A home of pure imagination and focus on fun; it touches the senses in every conceivable way.

18b Maunganui Rd, Mount Maunganui

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Ebb and flow

Minutes from Katikati, this secluded waterfront paradise with panoramic harbour views is a rare lifestyle gem.

words JO FERRIS

Herons drop in to share nature within this waterfront haven. Views gaze across Tauranga Harbour, right down to Tauranga, where city lights twinkle at night. A sandy beach on the waterfront reserve awaits to push the boat out and fish in the harbour. For ocean jaunts and bigger game, larger vessels can be launched from the Long Beach Reserve boat ramp nearby.

This is ultimate serenity – seclusion within a waterfront headland minutes from Katikati – recognised for its friendly, village ambience and easy commutes to Tauranga on one side and Auckland on the other. But only if you want to. Everything you need is already here.

Home to these vendors for 22 years, gated entry to this established avocado orchard ensures privacy is absolute – the world left behind, tranquillity and harbour link proving why they have loved this lifestyle for so long.

Timeless elegance and smart design ensure views and nature remain the stars. Downstairs’ bedrooms all enjoy personal access to the verandah sweeping along the home. Every living area also opens outdoors, while bi-fold windows in the kitchen ensure alfresco relaxation is well catered for. Upstairs, the spacious master retreat has the added benefit of privacy, with elevated views and a balcony to cherish it all in peace and quiet.

Revolving around entertainment, this aspect is introduced the moment the front door opens. The foyer frames the harbour outlook, but also divides family living and the lounge – a feature that instils different moods to each area.

There is a third mood in this home, however. Sitting at the far end and linked with the garage, a multi-purpose room invites numerous options. Also connected with the garden and, complete with a benchtop and sink, it enhances this area’s purpose, be it leisure, exercise or work.

Gazing out to the massive waterfront sweep, there is potential to enhance recreation here. Leading out from the home, gentle formality in the garden is easy-care. As it steps down to the playground lawn, this open expanse offers endless opportunity. A pool, cricket, golf, or all three? There’s certainly room here.

A discreetly-placed shed with mezzanine, storage, kitchenette, bathroom and laundry complements orchard production – either working it as lifestyle option or opting for management with any of the local providers.

Every day is a new day, fishing or cruising the harbour, venturing out to sea and Mayor Island, or simply cherishing the seclusion and tranquillity – along with the herons.

258E Beach Road, Katikati

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Country class

Elevated Oropi living with stylish design and family-focused spaces, this modern retreat blends nature, privacy and possibility.

words JO FERRIS

Nestled behind a fringe of manuka trees, this home’s introduction hides one of its biggest features: stunning scenery. Views embrace rolling farmland around the house, down to the city, the harbour and ocean. Mauao is majestic, yet it seems dwarfed by the magnificence of Mayor Island/Tūhua behind. Gazing right up to the Coromandel, these views set the stage for a beautiful lifestyle from this lofty position.

As a recent build, the home revolves around family, entertaining and intimate connection with nature. Oropi has escaped much of the horticultural development that has swept the countryside elsewhere in this region.

While not devoid of neighbours, clever landscaping instils enough seclusion, while still inviting weekend gatherings. Parent privacy is absolute. A five-star retreat sits in its own wing, away from the remaining three bedrooms, at the far end. This feature alone, gives children or guests their own space; an elegant bathroom to share and separate powder room for added convenience.

Every bedroom basks in views, however – either down the valley or out to the countryside. Particularly exquisite is the eastern view towards Pāpāmoa Hills and an historic pa site.

An office, study nook and storage enhance the design and convenience within the parent wing, while clever flow increases practical aspects of family life. Each zone interconnects, yet remains defined – storage maximising space wherever possible. At the heart of it all, relaxation and entertainment are centre stage – the family hub showcasing soaring ceilings with contemporary trusses and barn door feature.

The bespoke kitchen has a scullery to keep prep and pantry storage out of sight. Modern farmhouse styling also showcases the love of bold colour – dark denim cabinetry the perfect complement to the tone and texture that instils personality throughout this home.

Dark woodgrain flooring in this family hub adds depth, while being on trend and practical for life in the country.

Features throughout this home accentuate innovative design elements. A cloak room off the foyer and guest powder room, cushioned window seats in bedrooms and shelving in both living areas – perfect for books, artwork and special items.

As the home slips outdoors to the loggia and playground expanse, there is room to develop this property further – a pool, tennis or mini golf, perhaps?

Fruit trees are already in place, while dedicated veggie and herb boxes sit off the kitchen for easy access. Built with forethought, nature meets lifestyle with originality and nuance in this idyllic Oropi setting.

1115B Oropi Rd, Oropi OLIVERROADBAYOFPLENTY.COM

Town and country

French-inspired elegance meets New Zealand heritage at this grand estate, offering timeless craftsmanship and luxurious comfort across every detail.

words JO FERRIS

New Zealand architecture has a unique ability to adapt global influences to suit local aesthetics in ways that give greater credence to this country’s way of life.

This home’s grandeur begins at the private entry, as the green-belted driveway slides past an established avocado orchard. Fully managed by Ashlin Avos, this aspect removes any thoughts of hands-on work to offer the prospect of passive income and country lifestyle.

The welcome is imposing – gabled roofing pays homage to grand estates of old, with weatherboard construction matching that character in a contemporary way. Impressive double rimu doors, with their leadlight insets, suggest native timber and heritage features will continue inside; and this home certainly showcases its appreciation of traditional craftmanship.

The kitchen takes its cue from French country styling – blending marble and timber with intricate precision. Colour choices complement the theme, while instilling an intimate mood that enriches bar-stool gatherings around the large rimu island and formal dining.

Views stretch outside to the swimming pool and garden. Cathedral ceilings enhance the space, bespoke lighting blends character, while hand-beaten pewter hardware catches the light in subtle harmony.

The mood lightens in the family lounge – its softer tone and texture a clever contrast between the darker flavour of the kitchen/dining hub and formal lounge either side.

Deep-coloured carpet in the lounge is a smart contrast to the oak laminate flooring in family living. The formal lounge doubles as a home theatre, thanks to a built-in projector and speakers. Eyes also draw to the antique kauri mantel embracing the gas fire; a feature repeated in family living.

While the warm flicker of flame is an asset in both rooms, the ground floor boasts 10-zone hydronic underfloor heating, heated primarily with a diesel furnace.

Living areas all flow outside to expansive patio settings and a tranquil garden backdrop. Hidden neatly within a fringe of camelia hedging, the swimming pool melts into this serene setting. Four bedrooms include a sumptuous master retreat upstairs, with its balcony gaze over the garden below; plus a second ensuite bedroom.

Remaining bedrooms are downstairs; one shares semi-ensuite access to another bathroom, while all three boast heritage Perrin & Powel fittings, marble and oak cabinetry, plus underfloor heating.

Luxury features continue through to a large laundry – designed around ‘mud room’ convenience for country lifestyle.

With three-car garaging and ample parking to welcome visitors, this home is the epitome of refined living – a country estate that brings heritage into the modern day.

80 Oliver Road, Te Puna OLIVERROADBAYOFPLENTY.COM

A legacy to love

At Lemon Grove, grace and history stand tall, with elegant architecture, breathtaking harbour views, and a century-old beech tree anchoring its story.

words JO FERRIS

Heritage and sentiment share a natural synergy – history ever present in this home’s journey through time; as each owner added new chapters along the way.

Known to many who live in and around Lemon Grove Avenue, the towering beech tree gracing this home’s entry is seen far and wide. If trees could only talk, memories would run deep.

As it turns out, memories not only run deep, they stretch around the world – to England, where the son of this home’s developer still remembers his early childhood here. Built in 1932 for a Mr Knowles, this English engineer had moved to New Zealand to follow his dream to grow lemons on this Ōtūmoetai site.

Originally covering some 30 acres, this address was named accordingly. A far cry from what exists now, the house started out as a single-level farmhouse in solid stucco with a terracotta tile roof.

After the birth of her son, Mrs Knowles planted a beech tree when he was two years old. Sadly, she missed England so much, the family returned home a year later. Despite his youth, the son never forgot the home; missing it his entire life – even making visits over the years to see the dramatic changes it underwent.

Now two levels – the second storey was added in the ‘40s by a Dr Kenney, who used the house as a surgery and convalescent home. The next owners subdivided and sold the surrounding land – adding their own mark to the property with a swimming pool, creating a large terrace and loggia at the same time.

As the beech tree grew, the grounds were developed and nurtured over the years to resemble the formality of an English country garden with hedgerows, specimen trees and wisteria.

Records also show that the home has been used for a knitting business and at one point was split into three flats.

The current owners fell in love the moment they saw this home nine years ago – lured by the landmark towering beech; but also, the size and scale of the property, plus the harbour view to Mauao and beyond.

Having lived overseas for many years, they wanted to return to New Zealand to continue raising their family. The space was vastly different from what they had left – a house of substance and around 1600 square metres of grounds, offering the sheltered privacy of a pool, gardens and large playground lawn for cricket and croquet. North-facing and elevated, the sweeping harbour panorama can be seen from every room, bar the laundry.

Impressive in its design, the solid rimu kitchen with its marble benches is a standout. Elegant living areas revolve around entertainment and link to the outdoors and terrace settings. A study, guest bedroom, heritage bathroom and laundry sit downstairs, while the ensuite master retreat and three more bedrooms sit upstairs – all basking in the stunning views.

Joining this home’s handful of owners who have loved life here, the time has come to pass the heritage on to another family. Every owner has done something to the home – either dramatically through extension; or cosmetically.

Committed to maintaining the home’s character, these vendors have redecorated throughout – preparing its upkeep with respect and mindful of its essence. A particularly poignant aspect concerns a letter these owners now have as a reminder of that little three-year old who never forgot this home. Now in his 80s, upon hearing a niece was coming to New Zealand, he wrote a letter for her to give to them. Just as he never forgot the home of his childhood, these owners will take their own memories with them – a letter in hand, marking the bond between generations and a home – history and sentiment forever intertwined.

39 Lemon Grove Avenue, Ōtūmoetai OLIVERROADBAYOFPLENTY.COM

Elegance defined

Perched on a ridge with commanding views, this distinguished residence and premium avocado orchard unite to create one of the Bay of Plenty's most prestigious, perfectly crafted lifestyle properties.

words JO FERRIS

Bought for the exquisite panorama from Mauao, Matakana and harbour to the Kaimais, this elevated ridge was virtually a blank canvas. Nothing remains externally of the original house; only the shelter belts and concrete driveway strips.

Constructed by former boat builder turned house builder Tony Farley, an obsession for detail both by Farley and the owners entailed a lengthy journey to perfection.

Its Hamptons theme blends quality with a focus on views and intimate outdoor flow. Designed as a boutique bed and breakfast, Ridgeton has earned praise from guests who cherished this exquisite seclusion.

The privacy afforded in the lower level is equally appealing as a family residence, however. An elegant lounge and four bedrooms all open outdoors to bask in the scenery amid various verandah settings. One bedroom has its own ensuite, while another has semi ensuite access to the bathroom shared by remaining bedrooms. A powder room enhances the convenience, while design genius combines a private laundry, kitchenette and cloakroom feature.

Significant storage also uses every possible space – including the stairwell. Upstairs privacy elevates this home’s prestige and command of scenery.

The five-star master retreat greets sunrise and bathes in Mauao’s glory; spacious luxury enjoying the indulgence of a bathroom for two and fitted dressing room.

Open-plan living takes full advantage of natural light and scenery. Eyes feast on the kitchen – imported Palazzo glass cabinetry cleverly finished in a matte white sheen and stainless steel hardware accentuating the quality. Nothing dominates, features stand out simply due to tasteful finish and detail; accents showcased on the likes of tiled splashbacks and solid oak elements on flooring and bathroom vanities.

Wrap-around decking follows the sun all day; glass balustrades ensure all views are seamless. When the sun does dip behind the Kaimais, rainbow beams f licker off the crystal chandelier as fairy lights in the lounge. Nuance and nature are balanced by high specifications in this home and graceful garden. It exudes romance amid secluded tranquillity – settings to reflect throughout the day and evening – under the verandah, amid floral fragrance or beneath the alfresco bower, where espaliered citrus plantings will eventually cover the trellis roofing.

Genius is everywhere, including the avocados. Planted in 2020, this high density orchard is a pioneer of the industry’s future; part of the extraordinary invitation this property extends. Graceful in design, refined with detail; Ridgeton has reached a milestone – ready for a new chapter.

46 Prestidge Rd, Aongatete OLIVERROADBAYOFPLENTY.COM

Above and beyond

The height of luxury in a private Minden enclave, this bespoke residence harmonises innovative design with the tranquillity of its lush surroundings.

words JO FERRIS

Life has a habit of moving the goalposts. Designed as this couple’s forever home, new priorities now invite someone else to change their own destiny. A beautiful home, in an exquisite setting – cocooned in a sheltered Minden valley – amid a private community.

Tucked at the end of a small enclave, the house stands above its neighbours – seemingly built into the hillside, with its bush backdrop of pongas and natives.

Towering banks envelop the home amid nature and birdsong; deceptive size and scale that includes a playground lawn.

Given the extent of lush gardens, it’s hard to believe this house was completed just five years ago. The owners wanted a future-proofed, timeless look. Without that knowledge, it’s easy to overlook how cleverly this home facilitates flexible living. A significant two-level residence – with a 2.7 metre stud throughout – it is designed with generous, wide passages and doorways for proportion convenience and a lift for access upstairs.

Colin Davis of Davista Architecture changed nothing in the owners’ vision for their family hub, merely playing with elements elsewhere to perfect the final flair. Built by 90 Degrees Construction, the attention to detail is flawless. The kitchen and dining hub is the centre of entertainment. Black cabinetry features a specially-mixed double lacquer – matte not gloss. Black engineered Caesarstone covers the bar-stool island, while an interesting finish of Dekton in the scullery adds a unique contrast.

The splashback is also purpose made – another single sheet that mimics smashed antique glass.

Dining caters for crowds; its soaring ceiling and bespoke lighting just one of this home’s many talking points. Linked with a mezzanine lounge above, a glass balustrade allows connection below, while ensuring a seamless view of scenery through the ascending wall of glass.

A kitchenette increases the convenience for family and guests, while bedrooms either side enjoy personal space.

Tone and texture dominate this home’s intrigue – highlighted with high-end Italian porcelain floor tiling in the family hub and passage. It was selected specifically for endurance and the deceptive look of dark oak timber.

An office downstairs could double as another bedroom, while the master retreat revolves around romantic privacy. A waterfall garden framed by a full-length window embraces nature, but the ensuite is pure indulgence. An oval bath for two, picture glazing framing a tropical garden and outdoor flow to enjoy the birdsong.

Detail and luxury underpin every aspect of this secluded haven. Surprise and innovation are everywhere – a home for today, designed for the future.

8 Minden Hill Lane, Minden

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