Te Mata Retreat is a bespoke architectural response to its spectacular site on Holland Lane, Havelock North. Overlooking Hawke’s Bay and the Heretaunga Plains, the residence draws inspiration from its rural setting and iconic vistas, including the sacred Te Mata Peak. Designed for a client relocating from the city, the project reflects their desire for a family home that captures the tranquillity and understated charm of the Hawke’s Bay countryside, marking their shift from urban Wellington to a rural lifestyle.

 

Positioned on a moderately sloped lot within the Tuki Tuki Special Character Zone, the design anchors itself to the rear of the designated building platform. This placement allows the home to frame its panoramic views while preserving privacy and blending into the natural contours of the landscape. Extensive research into the site’s topography, wind patterns, and sun trajectory informed the design approach, resulting in a structure that feels as though it belongs to its surroundings.

 

The architecture is defined by a simple yet elegant form, utilising a combination of stained cedar cladding in light and dark tones, reminiscent of the magpies often seen in the area. The two lean-to structures create a harmonious relationship between the built form and the rugged beauty of the site, with low-lying, subdued profiles that minimise visual impact from neighbouring properties and distant viewpoints. The home’s single-storey layout encourages seamless interaction between indoor and outdoor spaces, with the main family area extending into a sheltered outdoor room—ideal for taking in the stunning scenery while providing protection from the prevailing northern winds.

 

Sustainability and functionality are at the core of the design. The home incorporates thermal mass in the concrete floors for passive heating, cross ventilation for natural cooling, and solar-powered systems for energy efficiency. Rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling further demonstrate a commitment to environmentally conscious living, while the material palette reflects the natural tones and textures of the surrounding environment.

 

Collaborative input has been key to the project’s development. Pōneke Architects worked closely with Conor Dolman, Cremer Construction, structural engineers, and alongside interior designer Abbie Chapman. This integrated approach ensured that every detail—from the layout to the finishes—aligned with the clients’ vision of a relaxed, functional home that celebrates its rural setting.

 

The Tuki Tuki House is an expression of considered architecture, responding to its context with sensitivity and respect. It embodies the spirit of rural New Zealand while providing a timeless, elegant retreat for its owners, seamlessly merging contemporary design with the natural beauty of its surroundings.