Alpine village development Mt Cardrona Station is celebrating several major milestones this winter headlined by the opening of the first stage of The Homestead which is the heart and soul of the station’s central village.

Set on 400 hectares of land above the Cardrona Valley the property offers master-planned residential living, visitor accommodation, 30 kilometres of private hiking and biking trails and a central village with luxurious facilities located within the stunning buildings of The Homestead for owner and guest use.

Significant landmarks in the past year have included completion of seven architecturally designed homes on site with six more under construction. First  homeowners moved in 12 months ago and there are five distinct neighbourhoods available with a range of house types and pre-approved concept designs as well as the opportunity to create a personal bespoke design.

Ecological planning has seen 3000 native plants established, invasive species removed and 50 predator traps installed. The station aims to plant 64,000 plants over the next decade as part of its vision to become an eco-sanctuary. 

Owners and guests are enjoying the first tracks and trails to open in the private network which have been completed by Elevate Trail Building with more to open next spring and summer. 

Hub for All Seasons

Designed by Leuschke Group Architects and built by Cook Brothers Construction The Homestead at Mount Cardrona Station opened its doors in June this year. Stage One includes the members only club room, gym, outdoor hot pools and sauna, main reception, remote workspaces and boardroom. 

Leuschke Southern Lakes GM Luke Leuschke describes The Homestead as a contemporary building which evokes the region’s high-country buildings while complementing the landscape.

“The challenge of the design was to capture the essence of yesterday and marry that with the needs of today and into the future It’s a hub for all seasons, for residents and visitors. Views are seen in all 360 degrees from the site and the view shaft from the across the tarn and down the valley is important as it contrasts with the outlook into the surrounding mountains.”

The interior incorporates luxurious spaces for relaxation, work and social gatherings blending modern amenities with the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. Design inspirations include the expansive vistas, natural grasslands and mountains surrounding the building and adjoining tarn. Paying homage to the area’s rich history and Central Otago’s natural colour palette earthy tones and textures have a sophisticated, contemporary edge.

Designed as a welcoming country lodge natural wool materials, leather, brass, textured wood, schist and river stones, simple yet sophisticated accent lighting and industrial elements combine with custom made tables displaying the patina of age while the state-of-the-art office spaces and sleek boardroom are practical and private.

Luxury Rental Option

Mt Cardrona Station has launched a range of luxury alpine rental accommodation featuring options across three distinct property types, each providing a distinctive and elevated experience in one of New Zealand’s most sought-after winter destinations. 

The station has partnered with New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty Luxury Rental Homes to deliver the rental properties with winter bookings filling up fast. 

With New Zealand’s largest ski area Cardrona Alpine Resort on the doorstep the accommodation is perfect for families or groups of friends keen to beat the crowds on a powder day with a 12-minute drive to the nearest ski lift. 

“Whether you’re seeking a cosy retreat, a spacious family home or a more indulgent stay each of our beautifully designed homes offers the perfect balance of comfort, style and breathtaking views,” says resort manager Anna Hiatt. 

Homes comfortably accommodate up to six guests a night. While ideal for winter getaways they also offer an authentic high-country experience in a 400 hectare backyard with hiking and biking trails, ranging from leisurely half-hour walks to extended biking and hiking trips and other recreational activities the area offers in the warmer months. 

Guests enjoy access to selected luxury facilities at The Homestead including hot pools and sauna, the gym and remote working facilities.

“Many owners with homes underway at the station are staying this winter to experience it for the first time and others have booked to ‘try before they buy’,” says Anna. 

Soho Alpine Retreat Lofts

Special enhancements have been made to Mount Cardrona Station’s unique ski chalet, the Soho. Starting from just $1.49 million the chalet can include the addition of spacious loft spaces to create extra sleeping quarters for family and friends. 

Every square metre is maximised with an innovative design that adds optional full-height lofts to two of the three ground floor bedrooms, each capable of accommodating two single beds and couch (depending on the configuration). Existing bedrooms can convert to media rooms or home offices.

Soho homes are available in the Pioneer neighbourhood as land and build packages and innovative construction methods are used to deliver a six-month completion timeline from contract to key.  

Experienced Resort Manager 

Wanaka resident Anna Hiatt has joined the team at Mt Cardrona Station to manage The Homestead, tracks and trails, visitor accommodation and property management services as well as the station’s Residents Association. 

Anna’s previous roles have included a range of high-profile positions in commercial, event development and communications management, local directorships and managing her own business. 

“We’re excited about the capability, new ideas and enthusiasm Anna brings,” says director Tom Morton.

Anna encourages visitors to drive up to the village to see the property first-hand. 

“Our sunny plateau is bathed in year-round sunshine and it is impossible to see from the Cardrona Valley Road how much has been completed and is currently underway,” she says.