“Kakanui” is an architecturally award-winning, world-class coastal sanctuary positioned on the exclusive Tawharanui Peninsula. Designed by Pacific Environments and winner of the 2019 Master Builders Auckland Region House of the Year, the home commands extraordinary panoramic views over the Hauraki Gulf, Little Barrier, Great Barrier and the surrounding islands. It is a rare blend of total privacy, luxury, nature and lifestyle — a once-in-a-generation legacy property.
Set on 3.42 hectares with 2.8 hectares of native bush and 3,300 square metres of landscaped lawns, Kakanui delivers a dramatic arrival, elegant architecture, and a lock-and-leave ease that belies its scale and sophistication.
The difference Is in the details
Every element of Kakanui has been considered with purpose. From the sculpted architecture to the material choices that shape each room, the home has been crafted to elevate daily living. Light, texture and form come together with quiet precision, creating a sense of ease that you feel the moment you arrive. These details are not just features. They define the experience of living here.
Award-winning home by Pacific Environments
442 sqm internal living, 300 sqm outdoor living
Infinity pool, spa, floor-to-ceiling glazing
Crafted with block, cedar, oak, brass and masonry
Radiator Central Heating & Stovax Studio fire
High-spec kitchen & scullery with Fisher & Paykel appliances
Winner of the 2019 Auckland Master Builders covenanted “Craftsmanship Award”
Built to Very High Wind Zone specification
Rib-raft concrete foundation
Vantage Architectural joinery
3-phase power, 4 sub-boards
50,000L water storage + legal bore rights
Property Details
From the first glow of sunrise to the final light of evening, this film follows the rhythm of the home as the sun moves across the sky, revealing how each space shifts in mood, colour, warmth and atmosphere. From peaceful mornings on the eastern terrace and long afternoons by the infinity pool, to evenings framed by soft coastal light, it perfectly captures the lifestyle this property offers. It is a gentle invitation to see how you can truly live here, moving seamlessly between indoor and outdoor spaces as the day unfolds.
A location without equal
Kakanui sits above one of New Zealand’s most celebrated coastal regions — the Tawharanui Peninsula. With white sandy beaches, protected marine reserves, pristine bush, boutique shopping, markets, wineries and world-class outdoor recreation, this area embodies the perfect coastal-country lifestyle. The regional park, walking tracks, wildlife sanctuaries, native birdlife and proximity to the sea create a lifestyle that is immersive, peaceful, enriching and rare.
Where the day begins in quiet perfection
Soft light rises over the ridgeline, filling the home with a warm, gentle glow. Mornings here start slowly — freshly brewed coffee, stillness, birdsong, and the kind of natural light that makes every window feel like a living artwork. This is the daily ritual that sets the tone for the entire estate.
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Spaces designed for connection, celebration, and effortless living
From the entertainer’s kitchen to the lounges, bar, movie room, outdoor brazier terraces, pool, spa and lawn games — this is where life happens. The home’s social spaces flow smoothly from indoors to out, inviting long lunches, sunset drinks, late-night laughter, and moments that become family stories.
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A sanctuary of calm, crafted for rest and renewal
Beautiful bedrooms, serene suites, quiet nooks and spa-like bathrooms create a deeply restorative environment. Whether it’s an afternoon reset or a long, luxurious sleep-in, this is where you slow down, breathe deeper, and recharge. Every detail here is designed for comfort, softness and privacy.
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The difference Is In the details
Every element of Kakanui has been considered with purpose. From the sculpted architecture to the material choices that shape each room, the home has been crafted to elevate daily living. Light, texture and form come together with quiet precision, creating a sense of ease that you feel the moment you arrive. These details are not just features. They define the experience of living here.
Award-winning home by Pacific Environments
442 sqm internal living, 300 sqm outdoor living
Infinity pool, spa, floor-to-ceiling glazing
Crafted with block, cedar, oak, brass and masonry
Radiator Central Heating & Stovax Studio fire
High-spec kitchen & scullery with Fisher & Paykel appliances
Winner of the 2019 Auckland Master Builders covenanted “Craftsmanship Award”
Built to Very High Wind Zone specification
Rib-raft concrete foundation
Vantage Architectural joinery
3-phase power, 4 sub-boards
50,000L water storage + legal bore rights
Infinity pool melting into horizon views
Morning terraces, sunset terraces, firepit, private courtyards
3,300m² landscaped lawns
2.8ha native bush with Kiwi, Kaka, Heron, Quail and Pheasant
Walk, Ride or Drive to Shingle Bay, Christian Bay, Anchor Bay or Omaha Beach
Kayak, swim, fish, surf or launch a boat minutes from home
Cycle Tracks to and around Tawharanui, Matakana, Pt Wells & Omaha
Sandspit Boat Marina for launches/yachts up to 65 feet, trailer boat ramps nearby and suitable short term mooring in Christian Bay
Dog friendly walking beaches at Shingle Bay, Christian Bay and Omaha Beach
Safe Sea Swimming in Christian Bay, Tawharanui Park Beaches, Omaha Beach
All year round fishing/diving/sailing/surfing
Rare Bird Watching including Kiwis at Kakanui Estate and Tawharanui Park
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A floor plan designed for living
Kakanui has been shaped with a natural flow that mirrors the rhythm of the day. Each wing has been placed with intention, creating effortless separation between private retreats, guest spaces and the central areas where family and friends gather. Indoor and outdoor living blend harmoniously, allowing the terraces, pool and views to become part of the home. This layout is not only functional. It elevates the way you live, offering comfort, privacy and connection in perfect balance.
Evenings painted in colour
As the sun dips toward the horizon, the estate transforms. Warm tones illuminate every surface, creating a sense of calm and beauty that feels almost cinematic. This is the moment where the day unwinds — whether you’re gathered outside with a drink, cooking dinner, or simply watching the sky change.
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A location without equal
Kakanui sits above one of New Zealand’s most celebrated coastal regions — the Tawharanui Peninsula. With white sandy beaches, protected marine reserves, pristine bush, boutique shopping, markets, wineries and world-class outdoor recreation, this area embodies the perfect coastal-country lifestyle. The regional park, walking tracks, wildlife sanctuaries, native birdlife and proximity to the sea create a lifestyle that is immersive, peaceful, enriching and rare.
The Sculptureum is a world-class attraction often ranked among the best in New Zealand. It is an extraordinary experience featuring over 800 works of art from renowned artists like Rodin, Picasso, and Dale Chihuly.
The Tāwharanui Regional Park offers direct access to the peninsula's spectacular coastal environment. Located minutes from the property, this area is a unique conservation success, recognised as New Zealand's first integrated open sanctuary combining protected land, farming, and recreation.
The property's name, Kakanui, beautifully reflects the presence of the native Kākā bird, a large, charismatic forest parrot endemic to Aotearoa New Zealand. These highly intelligent and sociable birds are instantly recognisable by their olive-brown plumage, accented by vivid crimson and red-orange flashes beneath their wings.
The Tāwharanui Regional Park offers exceptional coastal nature experiences, providing numerous scenic walking and biking trails for all fitness levels. Visitors can explore designated tracks that traverse rolling pastures and pockets of regenerating native forest, offering exposure to the parks diverse wildlife sanctuary and revealing stunning ocean vistas.
Inconic weekend market showcasing artisan food, boutique producers, and vibrant local culture.
Te Arai Golf Course World-class coastal golfing, unmatched fairways, and championship-level play minutes from home.
This area is now recognised as one of the worlds greatest golfing destinations, featuring the highly exclusive Tara Iti Golf Club (ranked globally) and the stunning new Te Arai Links. Tara Iti is an exclusive, members-only links masterpiece designed by Tom Doak, nestled between towering sand dunes and the islands of the Hauraki Gulf.
Sandspit Marina located in the Matakana River, Sandspit Marina is a state-of-the-art boutique marina completed in 2016. It offers 134 berths and caters to both members and visiting boaties. The protected harbour serves as an ideal base for cruising, providing direct and easy access to Kawau Island, the Hauraki Gulf, and other prime northern cruising grounds.
The Omaha Gulf Course offers a magnificent 18-hole, par 70, links-style course that is frequently ranked in the to 10% of courses in New Zealand. Located on a headland bordered by the sea on one side and natural estuary on the other, the course makes the most of its stunning seaside location.
Kawau Island / Mansion House is a beautiful historic reserve centred around the former residence of Sir George Grey, one of New Zealand's most infuential political figures. Built in 1845, the iconic Mansion House is a registered Category 1 Historic Place, offering visitors a glimpse into the past with its impressive collection of antique furnishings.
The Matakana Village is widely regarded as the vibrant and charming heart of the region. It offers and escape defined by fresh country air, artisanal food, award-winning wine, and stylish boutique's and galleries. Open every day, the village is famous for the Matakana Village Farmer's Market held every Saturday, which draws crowds for its fresh, local and artisan produce.