Hawke’s Bay icon reborn

Set at the foot of the Havelock Hills and surrounded by sweeping park-like grounds, this extraordinary Hawke’s Bay estate presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to secure a home of rare architectural pedigree and contemporary sophistication.

Originally designed in 1914 by acclaimed architect Louis Hay, the residence has been meticulously restored and reimagined by only its second owner over a four-year period. The result is a home that honours its heritage while delivering modern comfort, resilience and refinement at an uncompromising level.

“This is a property where the integrity of the original design has been deeply respected,” says Bayleys salesperson Fiona Mackenzie.

“What’s remarkable is how seamlessly the home now lives and feels timeless rather than historic.”

Discreetly positioned in private, park-like grounds, the estate enjoys commanding outlooks across the Heretaunga Plains, stretching to the Pacific Ocean and distant ranges, with Mt Ruapehu visible on clear winter days. Inland, the views take in Te Mata Peak and the surrounding hills, while after dark the lights of Hastings and Napier form a dramatic and ever-changing backdrop.

“The view offers a little bit of everything for residents and is perfectly suited for every season.”

Behind its stately facade lies a substantial residence of approximately 540 square metres (internal), offering five bedrooms, multiple living areas and a series of beautifully designed bathrooms. Large balconies and terraces supplement the interior, allowing graceful indoor outdoor living. Throughout the home, materials and craftsmanship speak to both legacy and renewal, with every detail carefully considered.

“Very few homes of this era have been restored to this standard, and the level of investment - structurally, aesthetically and technologically is absolutely exceptional.”

The home’s solid concrete construction, pebble roughcast exterior and reinforced internal walls provide enduring strength, complemented by comprehensive earthquake strengthening and modern insulation. A Marseille-tiled roof, renewed in 2022, completes the classic architectural form, while the surrounding landscape, designed by Suzanne Turley, creates a harmonious relationship between house and grounds, offering visual beauty by day and a softly illuminated environment by night.

Inside, the interiors blend historic charm with refined contemporary finishes.

“Bandsawn European oak flooring sits alongside French limestone, bespoke smoked Finnish oak joinery and Italian marble, creating spaces that feel elegant, warm and quietly luxurious.”

Comfort has been prioritised throughout, with a modern Viessmann diesel heating system delivering individually controlled warmth, supported by three open fireplaces, underfloor heating in bathrooms and additional climate control in the pool pavilion.

“The home has been designed to feel incredibly comfortable year-round. It’s as suited to large-scale entertaining as it is to quiet, everyday living.”

At the heart of the residence is a bespoke kitchen and wine bar, designed and handcrafted in Amsterdam. Rich smoked oak cabinetry from Finland is paired with Italian marble benchtops and premium Gaggenau and Wolf appliances. A generous scullery with additional sink and dishwasher ensures seamless hosting, while dedicated wine storage and refrigeration will appeal to collectors and entertainers alike.

Living spaces flow effortlessly from formal to relaxed, beginning with a grand entrance hall featuring a sweeping staircase and lift access to the upper level. Outdoors, an Italianate courtyard with limestone paving, open fireplace, rose-draped pergola and tranquil water features provides a private setting for long summer evenings and intimate gatherings.

“Picture warm summer nights as the sun sets, or dining alfresco by candlelight under the stars.” Upstairs, the primary suite occupies a privileged position, opening onto a covered veranda and enjoying expansive views across the surrounding landscape. Two luxurious en-suites and a generous dressing room with custom cabinetry offer privacy and indulgence.

Guest accommodation is equally well considered, with suites opening to terraces or covered verandas, and a flexible fifth room able to adapt as a study, media lounge or additional bedroom.

Complementing the main residence is a beautifully designed pool pavilion that mirrors the home’s architectural integrity - including two rooms, a full bathroom and a traditional Finnish sauna. A 15-metre heated swimming pool and custom spa are framed by French limestone paving and landscaped gardens, delivering a resort-style experience in complete privacy.

Beyond the main home, two original cottages add versatility to the estate. One, designed by William Gummer in 1910, retains its character and charm, while the second offers scope for rejuvenation or reinvention.

“This would be an ideal project to house extended family, guests or a caretaker to oversee the breathtaking grounds.”

Rolling lawns, mature trees, irrigated gardens and fully fenced paddocks complete the setting, with grazing sheep currently maintaining the land.

“This is more than a beautiful home, it’s an estate of genuine significance and one that offers privacy, scale and architectural distinction in a location that’s tightly held and rarely available.”

Restored with vision and executed to exacting standards, this remarkable property represents the ultimate fusion of heritage architecture and modern luxury, a truly outstanding lifestyle offering in the heart of Hawke’s Bay.