The ultimate alpine escape

Near Wanaka, this home offers superb design and access to the South Island’s wild places, writes Rosalind Le Bas Walker.

ALTHOUGH THE owners say their home is ‘‘just old and comfortable’’, when you take a look inside, it quickly becomes apparent that no expense has been spared to create this beautifully understated alpine retreat.

Just 2 kilometres from central Wanaka, the home is set on a twotitle block among mature gardens. The commanding views of the Southern Alps and the rural landscape to the Hawea Hills can be seen from most windows in the house.

Timber windows open to a glorious view of the garden, which owners Angus and Dale Gordon have carefully maintained during the past decade.

Clad in Cardrona stone with stained timber features, the home’s entrance is secluded from the road by the beautiful large trees which line the driveway.

There’s plenty of parking for guests outside the attached triple garage, which is in the same style as the home.

The pitched timber ceiling and open fire in the living area gives a rich ambience. The kitchen is the most favoured room and culinary delights are conjured daily. Crayfish, blue cod and whitebait from the West Coast often feature on the male chef’s menu while Dale produces all sorts of delights from their huge vegetable garden.

The couple originally bought the property 10 years ago for their family. ‘‘We never planned to live here, it just evolved, and we have enjoyed the privacy, tranquillity and fresh air.’’

The property is less than an hour to Queenstown, Arrowtown and Cromwell.

With miles of wilderness at the door, as well as skifields, pristine lakes, fish-filled rivers, and worldclass vineyards, Dale and Angus believe their property will suit anyone who enjoys the region’s natural playground and the property’s wide open spaces and privacy.

The couple is selling to be closer to specialist medical facilities.

The sea also beckons, as does their only grandchild in Australia, says Dale.