Welcome to

Okareka Downs

Inspiration
Rejuvenation
Role
Lead Designer
Client
Colin & Fran
September
2017
Okareka Downs

A staggering deer farm/forestry block with elevated homestead overlooking Lake Okareka and Mt Tarawera and with extensive existing gardens featuring Rhododendrons, Maples and alpine plantings, a legacy of previous owners. We were invited by the new owners to enhance and rework homestead surrounds to fully realise the potential and practicality of this exclusive property.

A major refurbishment of the existing pool and surrounds created a focal and recreational precinct and extensive retaining walling using locally sourced Rhyolite volcanic farm rock brought vistas to alfresco entertainment spaces. A dramatic stairway takes one down into the walkway system around the gardens.

The overall improvement to the outstanding outlook and creation of leisure spaces was breath-taking and extremely rewarding.

As clients and hosts Colin and Fran were exceptional and we are still involved in enhancing other areas of the property.

Showcasing Waitaha super-slab schist stepping stones & locally sourced Feature rocks
Waitaha Schist natural brick walling
Okareka Walling System
Hand-sculptured Waitaha schist water feature into swimming pool
Redwood "Cloud" structure
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