From modern seaside mansions to historic cottages, New York-style urban lofts to the Prime Minister’s official residence, some of New Zealand’s most captivating homes are opening their doors to the public.
Following from the sell-out success of last year’s NZ House & Garden Tours, raising $250,000 for charity, this year’s tours take in more than 40 homes in four centres: Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and the well-heeled settlements of Matakana and Omaha, north of Auckland.
NZ House & Garden Tours give the public a rare chance to see inside some of the country’s most interesting residences – belonging to equally interesting people from architects to designers, from empty nesters to artists.
A team led by NZ House & Garden editor Kate Coughlan chose this year’s houses to represent a cross-section of architecture and styles, reflecting everything inspirational about the country’s home design and decorating.
The Omaha/Matakana tour takes in several modern beach retreats varying in style from Pacifica (complete with bure entrance) to boat shed to Cape Cod and English country. They are complemented by a 1890s kauri homestead, a 1924 bungalow and a modern eco-friendly home powered by wind and solar energy.
Auckland visitors can view a huge Newmarket urban loft (complete with swimming pool), a remodelled Remuera 1920s arts and crafts villa, an industrial minimalist Mt Eden home and even the upgraded 100-year-old Devonport bungalow home of NZ House & Garden collectables editor Pam Neville.
The Wellington properties range from the official residence of the Prime Minister - Premier House, to a modified 1890 Te Aro cottage, a property designed as a doll’s house and one which includes a latin dance studio.
In the Garden City, visitors can view inside the winner of the 2009 NZ Institute of Architects Canterbury Regional Award, and a 1890s mansion that has housed royalty. This tour also includes a restored Victorian workers’ cottage and an architecturally-designed 1960s family home.
“We have chosen the 42 houses in this year’s house tours to showcase the huge variety of New Zealand’s home design,” says Kate Coughlan. “Some of them are grand and spacious, some of them are compact but perfect. Some are modern and some are very old, but faithfully maintained or restored.”
The NZ House & Garden Tours take place in March on the following dates:
Christchurch Friday 5 March
Auckland Friday 12 March
Wellington Friday 19 March
Omaha/Matakana Friday 26 March
Visitors can visit 10-12 homes in each region. Tickets cost $55 and are available from Ticketmaster on www.ticketmaster.co.nz 0800 111 999 or (09) 970 9700 or your local Ticketmaster outlet.
The proceeds of all four tours will be donated to the Cancer Society of New Zealand and cancer charity, Look Good Feel Better
