Luxury architect houses for sale Taupō, New Zealand

Held in the same family for approximately 71 years, Utowana meaning Haven by the Water is a truly special lakefront property offering riparian rights and a rare opportunity to secure an original piece of Rotorua’s waterfront heritage. Positioned at the foot of Kawaha Point, this 1,019 sq m property sits quietly within a small enclave of only a handful of neighbouring homes. Sheltered and private, the setting feels wonderfully tucked away yet remains conveniently close to local shops and the Rotorua CBD. From the moment you arrive, the charm is undeniable. The delightful black cottage, with its crisp white timber windows, evokes the feeling of a classic storybook retreat. Cottage gardens frame the home, while a swing seat beneath the trees invites you to pause and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. It is the kind of setting that feels timeless, a place where memories have been made for generations. The flat lawn leads to the water’s edge allow direct access to the lake. A charming timber boardwalk runs along the shoreline, enhancing both the character and practicality of this exceptional waterfront position. The outlook is simply captivating. Expansive views stretch across Lake Rotorua toward the iconic Mokoia Island, creating an ever-changing panorama that reinforces the property’s connection to the water. Sunrises shimmer across the lake, while evenings settle into a peaceful stillness rarely found so close to town. Originally designed in the late 1930s by renowned architect James Chapman-Taylor, the home retains its traditional lakeside cottage style and enduring character. An extension completed in the late 1980s added further accommodation while maintaining the integrity of the original design. Constructed from timber with timber joinery and a clay tile roof, the main home offers three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a traditional layout including kitchen and lounge spaces designed for relaxed lakeside living. A separate sleepout provides two additional bedrooms and a lounge area, creating ideal flexibility for extended family, guests, or holiday living. This is a property that invites a simple, authentic lifestyle, perfect for those who appreciate the nostalgic charm of a classic New Zealand bach. At the same time, the exceptional waterfront position and generous landholding offer exciting potential for those who may wish to reimagine the site and create something entirely new. Whether cherished as a family lake retreat, utilised as a holiday escape, or considered as a future redevelopment opportunity, this rare waterfront holding presents possibilities that are increasingly difficult to find.

Positioned within the exclusive Brunswick Park enclave, this exceptional lifestyle property delivers a striking balance of architectural design, privacy, and modern comfort across 1.5456 hectares of land. Elevated to capture sweeping lake views, the setting is both peaceful and private, with beautifully established landscaping surrounding the home and expansive grounds offering flexibility for future use or simply enjoying the natural environment. Crafted as a contemporary Lockwood residence, the home makes a bold first impression with its dramatic rooflines and expansive glazing. Inside, the design is warm yet sophisticated, with soaring timber ceilings and light-filled open-plan living that connects seamlessly to the outdoors. At the heart of the home, a stunning black kitchen creates a real sense of drama and style. Complete with high-spec appliances, engineered stone benchtops, and quality fixtures and fittings, it is both functional and visually striking, perfectly suited to everyday living and entertaining alike. The layout offers versatility, featuring two bedrooms plus a dedicated media room that could easily serve as a child’s bedroom, providing options for families, guests, or working from home. Living spaces extend effortlessly to generous timber decking, creating multiple areas to relax or entertain while taking in the tranquil surroundings and lake outlook. Adding further appeal, a separate building , Ataahua incorporates additional garaging, a gym with sauna, and a full bathroom, enhancing both lifestyle and functionality. Outdoors, the property continues to impress with a purpose-built entertaining kitchen complete with pizza oven and dish drawer, along with a separate utility shed. Two distinct outdoor zones each feature their own fire, with one complemented by a spa pool. A private heated plunge pool with subtle etched glass, and terraced landscaping provide multiple spaces to unwind, from quiet mornings overlooking the lake to evenings enjoying the setting sun. Finished to a high standard throughout, the home offers a cohesive sense of quality and comfort, with the option for the property to be sold fully furnished, allowing for a seamless move-in or turnkey holiday retreat. Recognised as the 2025 Lockwood House of the Year, this is a property that truly stands apart, offering architectural distinction, lifestyle flexibility, and a premium position in one of Rotorua’s most sought-after locations.