Property Description

Set within one of the Wairarapa’s most remarkable ecological landscapes, this architect designed three bedroom home sits elevated among mature native trees, overlooking Lake Ōnoke, and the expansive wetlands of Wairarapa Moana.

A striking entranceway sets the tone as you step into the light filled kitchen, family and dining area where a new modern kitchen forms the centre of daily living. Large windows frame the treetop surroundings, while a separate formal living room offers a quiet place to unwind. Upstairs, a generous office enjoys elevated views and provides an inspiring work from home setting.

From the upper terraces, the sweeping coastal views across Palliser Bay are truly breathtaking. The main house offers a beautifully considered layout. The master bedroom is a serene and spacious retreat, complete with a walk in wardrobe and an ensuite designed to capture incredible views across the landscape. Two additional bedrooms sit within their own wing of the home and are accompanied by a well appointed bathroom, providing comfort and privacy for guests.

Two rustic accommodation cabins complement the main home. Privately positioned among native plantings, these character filled spaces offer simple and peaceful guest accommodation and have long been enjoyed by visitors, birdwatchers and nature lovers. They are also increasingly popular with cyclists riding the nearby Remutaka Cycle Trail who seek a unique overnight stay in nature.

The commitment to restoration here is exceptional. The owners have spent decades caring for the land and are now two years into a three year native planting programme in partnership with the Aorangi Restoration Trust and Greater Wellington Regional Council. Extensive weed control and hundreds of new native plantings have transformed the hillside into a flourishing haven for wildlife.
Closer to the home and cabins, the landscape is enriched by established plantings including pohutukawa, whau, puriri, kowhai, karaka, totara, rata, beech, kahikatea, rimu, kauri, titoki, matai, miro, cabbage trees, flax and a variety of tree ferns. Carefully selected exotic species, including Norfolk Island hibiscus and coastal banksia, provide valuable winter food sources for native birds. The birdlife is extraordinary. Kereru now visit in such numbers that they help spread seed through the regenerating bush. Tui, piwakawaka, grey warbler, kingfisher and even the occasional kaka are regular visitors. A small wetland on the property attracts native ducks, pukeko and tuna eels, while below the home the Pounui wetlands form part of the wider Wairarapa Moana. This nationally significant ecosystem is home to the endangered bittern along with a diverse range of waterfowl, herons, wading birds, Caspian terns and coastal gulls.

For many years, this remarkable setting has been the heart of Te Rakau Birding. Friends, family and guests consistently comment on the serenity, the abundance of wildlife and the joy of watching tui feed from the sun drenched decks. Despite its privacy, the property remains conveniently located. It is approximately 30 minutes to Featherston, 35 minutes to Martinborough, just over five minutes to Ocean Beach and around one hour and thirty minutes to Wellington.

This is much more than a home. It is a rare sanctuary where thoughtful architectural design, ecological restoration, rustic accommodation and spectacular coastal scenery come together in an environment that feels truly special.