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

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

OLIVERROADBAYOFPLENTY.COM

Pitau house

Nature’s earthy hues meet textures of the Mount’s coastal elements in an extraordinary tapestry of architectural brilliance and design aesthetics.

WORDS Jo Ferris

The owners gave a clear brief to local architectural designer Adam Taylor. They wanted the combined allure of a New York loft and beach bach. The New York inspiration is unmistakeable; bach is probably an understatement. This is a sculptural statement - on the surface: simple by design, yet utterly complex in its execution, thanks to the skill of award-winning Fairbairn Builders.

The level of detail sweeps over a lay person’s head. To specialists, it’s imposing. Nestled in central Mount Maunganui, a few blocks from the beach, this location presented the challenge of a narrow site; but the precious seclusion the owners wanted. This isn’t evident until the home reveals its secrets, highlighted by fringes of towering trees in the rear neighbour’s expansive garden.

This backdrop instils the sense of living beside a forest glade - an aspect which extends this home’s intimate connection with nature. The birdlife is breathtaking; resident tuis heralding music in the air.

Enormous banks of floor-to-ceiling stackers form two full walls of glazing that slide either way in disbelief how the cantilevered feature was even possible. It is a design and engineering masterpiece, with massive beams hidden within the structure, including innovative storage on the upper level. A single pole in the crucial corner also disguises the depth of its support.

But back to the beginning. First impressions introduce the simplicity of a home designed around two boxed wings; kerb-side gardens designed to mimic undulating dunes and native plants. The look of what seems like white-washed brick, contrasts with the dramatic darkness of vertical, cedar shiplap, crafted to accentuate intricate illusions and rich vibe of the entire home.

Imported Belgian brick was actually fired this way, and continues its artistic announcement inside. This is where the house unveils its full extent. A soaring atrium enhances the space, while proving one living area is all this home needs to embrace its beach-bach personality. A wall of stacker doors open to an outdoor café lounge; complete with a kitchen barbecue. Louvred, sliding doors offer further choice to either savour the garden ambience, or enclose this area for more intimacy.

While lines between outdoor settings are blurred when doors open wide; once closed and back inside, the stunning appeal of coffee-toned drapes enrich the décor’s artistic palette and subtle lighting. Everything is an accent in design intellect, creative tone and texture. The kitchen is unique — deliciously dark; clean lines, integrated appliances and a showcase island. Capped with travertine, its angled shape mimics roofing that tops this home.

Three bedrooms upstairs include a five-star master retreat, placed to capture the best of the gardens below, while a mezzanine bridge leads to remaining ensuite bedrooms. Personalised in their finish, each opens to a cleverly-designed balcony that gifts individual privacy and views towards Mauao. Stairs also provide access to and from the road, plus an outdoor hot shower when returning from the beach.

Bathroom luxury continues the same tone of the kitchen’s travertine in showers and custom vanities. It pays homage to coastal colours; as does the hydronic-heated concrete floor in family living.

Extensive garaging caters for several vehicles, while a workshop corner, racks for bikes and boards meet the beach lifestyle; EV charging included and a smart laundry reflecting the impressive detail and bespoke finish that instils the elusive moods that dominate everywhere.

With a wine cellar, storage and hidden features, this home epitomises what architectural excellence and fastidious attention to specifics bring to a sanctuary that envelops you within soulful seclusion.

65 Pitau St, Mount Maunganui

OLIVERROADBAYOFPLENTY.COM

Bella Italia

This masterpiece of Italian-inspired luxury offers timeless craftsmanship and unforgettable grandeur in the heart of Tauranga.

words JO FERRIS

Discerning property buyers will know that this impressive property has been on the market for some time. You would be wise to put any perceptions, or thoughts of changing it, aside – rather see the home for what it is. Think like an Italian and appreciate that family sits at the heart of life.

Jason Eves sums it up when saying anyone who has followed Tauranga real estate will appreciate opportunities like this come once in a blue moon. Bella Italia’s vision was born from the Italian owner’s understanding of craftmanship.

Craftsmanship that not only lasts the passage of time, but continues that legacy through the generations, without modification, merely the appreciation that age brings to refined lifestyle.

This property impresses not just for its epic size and scale, but its multi-layered approach. Three residences in one include a four-bedroom home within the main level, a two-bedroom apartment on the upper floor, and a one-bedroom studio apartment within the ground floor.

Solid concrete construction underpins the focus on longevity and quality, while incorporating sound-proofing that ensures privacy for all three residences.

Designing three separate homes in one, the engineering knowledge and foresight remains faithful to the centuries’-old Italian palazzos this property was based upon. The design and finish might extol the Italian penchant for grandeur. Beneath all this however, the home disguises its attention to the fundamentals of a warm, healthy environment.

It epitomises the Mediterranean appreciation of family and entertainment. Either housing intergenerational family units, accommodating staff, or utilising this home’s unique presence for boutique accommodation, this is a multi-faceted property. Entertaining inside or out, the focus revolves around nurture and nourishment. It’s easy to envision long, lazy lunches outside, or lingering dinner parties in the soaring luxury of the banquet hall inside.

Blending Italian materials with New Zealand accents, this property fuses Mediterranean heritage with hi-tech innovation and engineering ingenuity. Safely guarded behind gated security, within nearly an acre, this haven ensures seclusion and solace, protection and privacy. Manicured gardens and courtyard corners, topiary pathways and sloping lawns, a heated pool for year-round leisure, a spa for added bliss – it is the quintessential lifestyle.

Overlooking the Wairoa Valley, this property has sun and scenery by day, with exquisite sunsets as nightfall arrives. A sense of country, yet close to major arterial links to Tauranga and beyond, Bella Italia is simply perfezione.

5 Sunny Downs Drive, Tauriko

OLIVERROADBAYOFPLENTY.COM

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

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