Spectacular Tahunanui

With views like these, staying put was the right answer, writes Rosalind Le Bas Walker.

WHEN BRYAN SKEGGS went looking for a better site on which to build his family’s ultimate home, he soon realised nothing came close to their existing land.

‘‘Twelve years ago, we searched Nelson for a new location. We were unable to find a position anywhere near as good so we decided to rebuild on the same site,’’ says Bryan.

The northwest-facing property has grandstand views of the sweeping sands of Tahunanui Beach, the sparkling sea of Tasman Bay and the distant Richmond and Western Ranges, which are snow clad in the winter.

‘‘The vista is always moving, changing and interesting, with the most amazing sunsets reflecting from the beach waters,’’ says Bryan.

For their new home, the Skeggs chose a luxurious, high-spec creation, which is as outstanding as its position.

Three inside living areas allow the family of five to spread out and entertain. Double-glazed cedar windows and doors flow to wide entertaining decks with a vast view over Nelson’s glorious beachfront and leafy parkland.

Two years after it was completed, the home was overall winner of the 2003 Registered Master Builders’ Association House of the Year. It has also won many other accolades, including awards for energy efficiency and interior style and finishings.

The decor has a timeless feel with a spectacular entrance foyer linking the downstairs and upstairs areas.

The property has rear drive-on access off a quiet private lane. The driveway accommodates numerous vehicles with good turning areas, while still leaving room for a cricket match. The gardens surrounding the house are low maintenance and easily kept.

On the home’s seaward side, a pathway accesses a road which leads two minutes down to the beach, shops and restaurants. It’s a handy five-minute drive to Nelson CBD, airport, golf course and marina.

With their family grown up, Bryan and Michelle are off to Central Otago for a change to the country.