2948 Arapuni Road, Pukeatua, Waipa

Award-winning riverside retreat

Taking pride of place on 6.19ha (more or less) bordering the Waikato River and set well off the road, this exceptional architecturally designed home enjoys all-day sun and uninterrupted vistas across rolling countryside to the ecological reserve of Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari.

The transformation from tired 1960s home into premium family residence saw this bespoke property win Gold in the 2020 Master Builders Waikato House of the Year Renovation Award. In addition, the ensuite bathroom won the Waikato Regional Bathroom Lifestyle Award, no small feat up against $2 million plus new builds.

Designed with space for extended family gatherings in mind, as well as the ability to keep an eye on the animals in the paddocks below, large sliding doors and extensive Kwila decking feature both downstairs and upstairs. An expansive, partially covered outdoor entertaining area with built-in fireplace effortlessly connects to the open plan kitchen, dining and living areas, resulting in a generous sense of space for accommodating friends and family while maximising the rural views. The designer kitchen offers stone benchtops, high-end appliances, a scullery with second sink and bespoke one-way glass splashback allowing those in the adjacent office to feel a part of the family activity. A second lounge or media room can be closed off, creating a cosy and relaxing space to retreat to and enjoy a movie or two. The sleeping quarters upstairs encompasses three double bedrooms, all with access to a wraparound deck, including a restful master suite that allows you to wake up to the views and indulge in a relaxing soak in the bath while looking out to the hills. A dedicated laundry and ample storage cupboards are ideal for modern family living.

Complementing the residence is a large enclosed 3-bay shed with automatic garage doors and attached animal shelter and woodshed, providing plenty of space for a workshop, hobbies or extra vehicles. Central laneways connect the paddocks with extensive post and rail fencing and provide easy access to an additional storage or animal-rearing shed suitable for stables. The flat to easy contour is ideal for horses and establishing an arena or other equestrian facilities. Steel yards with a handling and adjustable loading race ensure efficient stock management.

Bird life is varied and plentiful thanks to the proximity to the river, ecological reserve and an onsite pond featuring mature redwood and gum trees. Within easy reach of Putaruru, Te Awamutu and Cambridge and close to Takapoto Estate, the Waikato River Trails and boat ramp at Arapuni Landing, this elegant yet relaxed home is a masterpiece that offers an impressive move-in ready lifestyle retreat.