Living the Dream: Lavish Homes of Central Otago/Lakes

The Central Otago/Lakes District commands some of the highest property prices in New Zealand. In 2022, the average asking prices in Wanaka and Queenstown topped Auckland City, and almost all other regions, according to realestate.co.nz data.

Known for its breathtaking natural scenery, the real estate of the Central Otago and Lakes region tends to follow suit. 

We've selected some of the most luxurious options currently on the market:

The pinnacle

10 Pinnacle Place, Queenstown Hill, Queenstown

Once graced by holidaying celebrities - a Bitcoin billionaire, a famous soccer player, and award-winning singer to name a few, this home is truly the pinnacle of opulence.

Set on three levels overlooking Lake Wakatipu, it's just a stroll away from the quaint central Queenstown streets. But, with everything you should need at your fingertips and a $30,000 per night view - why would you ever leave?

Grand Estate 

98 Domain Road, Dalefield, Queenstown 

This home is more estate than house, comprising a grand central pavilion, flanked by a series of 'pods', that include open-plan living spaces, formal lounges fit for the very best guests, plus separate accommodation. 

Three open fires, an inbuilt spa pool and a custom made sauna are just a snippet of the 'home comforts' on offer.

Lake Hayes vista

3/23 Arrowtown-Lake Hayes Road, Lake Hayes

Overlooking Lake Hayes' majestic reflective waters, this three-bedroom home has been finished to the absolute highest standard.

One of three residences within 'The Elms,' the penthouse boasts privacy and elevated panoramic views among its many accolades. 

Architectural marvel on Lake Wanaka 

468 Buchanan Rise, Glendhu Bay, Wanaka

An architectural legacy on more than 50 hectares of lakefront land, it's no wonder the home known as Te Kaitaka is award-winning.

Cloaked in natural cedar, the home's façade is a subtle form that blends into the dramatic natural terrain, while providing more than meets the eye within it's modern, yet cosy interior.  

Queenstown masterclass 

3/130 Domain Road, Dalefield, Queenstown 

Previously from Master Builders House of the Year fame, this property is a masterclass in workmanship.

Three pavilions are joined by a central glass passage to create a gallery style feeling that puts Coronet Peak, Ben Lomond, The Crown Range and The Remarkables on display. 

Built for luxe living in all elements, the home includes a gym and sauna, plus state of the art ‘air to water’ heating and cooling.

Remarkable on The Remarkables

216 Remarkables Ski Field Access Road, Frankton

Known as Pokapu, this incredible home in set in the foothills of The Remarkables mountain range and was designed to be bold while seamlessly integrated into its surroundings.

What's really special is the tarn that laps the front of the home, providing a glassy vista out to Lake Wakatipu and the mountains beyond. 

For the connoisseur, or enthusiast, a subterranean wine cellar, dramatically revealed through a glass floor, provides constant temperature for the finest wines. 

Author's note: this content was written in February 2023 so listings herein may be sold or out of date.

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