Find purpose, peace and potential at Punatapu
Overlooking Lake Wakatipu, a private paradise perches up in the hills awaiting its new owners. Welcome to Punatapu Lodge, one of Queenstown’s finest.
‘Punatapu’ means ‘Sacred Pool’ in Maori and the historic grounds here certainly seem to be bestowed with something sacred. First used as a resting and camping place for Maori tribes heading to and from the greenstone harvest, the area was clearly chosen for its flat, warm and sheltered aspect: traits that were key to the decision to develop the land into a luxury 9.5 hectare estate centuries later. Designed by celebrated NZ architect Sir Ian Athfield, the home is a timeless classic. Turning off the road into a private entrance, you’ll meander through a forest of mature trees and alongside natural water features before rolling up to the lodge’s sprawling, sun-drenched courtyard. Ringed by four accommodation buildings with seven bedrooms, seven bathrooms, two kitchens and a formal lounge, the living will delight; with the addition of a heated swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna and outdoor patios only adding to the entertaining capabilities. Beyond the lodge, the stunning gardens of Punatapu are the result of years of time, effort and love from current owners the Farry family. From the spring blossoms to the vibrant autumn colours, the grounds are magnificent any time of year. A walk through the lower bird-filled arboretum and water world, up past the lodge and grasslands and to the artist-in-residence dwelling is a perfect way to unwind and soak in the natural beauty here. Before there was Blanket Bay and Matakauri Lodge, it was Punatapu that welcomed and wowed political dignitaries, celebrities and world leaders alike when they chose to visit the Wakatipu basin. Now used as a homestay accommodation/AirBNB, the option exists to bring Punatapu back to the world stage by using its unique attributes to develop a resort, just 10 minutes drive from downtown Queenstown. With potential to extend the luxury accommodation by creating a series of secluded villas, plus mini conferencing and education facilities, you could weave together the elements of modern wellbeing into one incredible experience. One of NZ’s most respected landscape architects, Baxter Group, has proposed a master plan of what could be developed here.
Very few sites with such potential and existing infrastructure remain these days, so act fast to secure your future in Punatapu!