EXPERIENCE A UNIQUE LUXURY HOME IN ONE OF THE MOST REMOTE AND BEAUTIFUL PLACES ON EARTH
Located on 20-hectare Merino Downs in the middle of New Zealand’s South Island, Matariki House is in the heart of the Mackenzie Basin Region. The Central South Island location has a rugged yet idyllic serenity that is difficult to experience in more urbanised South Island tourist destinations. The small-town feel has survived in the Mackenzie amidst high-country farming operations. The landscape is full of untouched horizons, golden sunsets, and captivating shadows. The Mackenzie/Aoraki night sky is one of only two IDA International Dark Sky Reserves in the Southern Hemisphere. It’s Montana and Marfa all in one.
The exterior materials and architecture of Matariki House reflect a reverence for the mountainous surroundings while the interior conveys an appreciation of modern form and function. With a mid-century aesthetic throughout, the internationally inspired interiors will make staying in for the night its own adventure. When you do decide to get out of the home, you are just minutes away from world-class experiences like the Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail, Mount Cook National Park, and Ruataniwha Conservation Park.
LOCATION
Adjacent to a working sheep farm and the Southern Alps, Matariki House is still only a four-minute drive from Twizel, the town and hub of the Mackenzie Basin. Twizel township features restaurants, shopping, and grocery stores. Head northwest from town and you will be on your way to Mount Cook and the Ben Ohau Range. Four large glacial-fed lakes surround the property, all within a 13-minute drive. Drive east and you will be at the Pacific Ocean – on some of the most scenic and beautiful state highways. The coastal towns of Timaru and Oamaru are all under a two-hour drive from Matariki House.
The Twizel/Pukaki Airport, which can accommodate private travel, landing, and parking, is a short five-minute drive away. Direct on-site helicopter pad access to Matariki House is also possible for discreet visitors. We have access to some of the most experienced pilots in New Zealand for tours and trips designed to go straight from the house for a day of travel around the South Island.
EXPERIENCE
The house is fully equipped and positioned for both adventure and relaxation. The 360-degree views show the mountains and skies from every angle. The modern interior design includes a collection of art and artifacts from around the world. This curated collection features modern New Zealand art alongside ancient artifacts from places long gone. You will be sleeping under the stars of an International Dark Sky Reserve with the cosmos on full display. From the house you can observe New Zealand falcons, banded dotterels, rifleman, and black-eyed stilts, to name a few native birds.
When you decide to venture out, one of our Kiwi guides can help you design your day to fully enjoy all the island has to offer. You are minutes away from world-class skiing, rowing, fly fishing, cycling, hiking, camping, bird watching, and more.
ABOUT THE HOUSE
Unlike other luxury accommodations in the area, at Matariki House you get the whole house to yourself. There is no need to co-mingle with other guests at breakfast and dinner. So, for some, the privacy of having the whole house further adds to the majesty that surrounds you on your relaxing holiday. The home layout and landscaping have an emphasis on indoor to outdoor living.
“Matariki House was designed as a harmonious spatial interior with depth and intrigue where you can have a whiskey with friends or snuggle up under a natural possum throw and enjoy the view of the stars.”
— Emma Morris, Eterno Design
“The modern design complements the mountainous surroundings and nestles nicely into the iconic golden setting of the MacKenzie Country. The house provides a sense of space and privacy while maximising the views from every space within the home.”
— Peter Breen, Breen Construction
3,756 sq. ft. (349 sq. m) of open interior
Three bedrooms: two king, two singles & private outdoor deck for each
Generous 360° views of the surrounding nature including peaks of Mount Cook National Park
Private internal courtyard with large outdoor local-stone fireplace & pizza oven
Indoor fireplace in living room
Tech-forward home with Wi-Fi, UE Boom, Yamaha Bluetooth speakers & USB charging outlets
Air-conditioning & heated floors for summer and winter enjoyment
Media room including a library, record player, smart TV, Roku for Netflix, Amazon, etc.
Local artists & artifacts featured throughout the home
Full-service kitchen features double dishwashers, butler’s pantry, ice maker, cocktail bar
Full-service 24/7 security & monitoring
Washing machine & dryer
Guides available to the house & surrounding area/activities – fly fishing, etc.
Daily maid and cleaning service available upon request
2-car garage & additional outdoor parking
Direct helicopter landing area
Mountain bikes
Outdoor barbecue and dining
Upon arrival: fresh flowers, free-range farm eggs & assorted baked goods
CONTACT US
Whether you are planning a visit to the Mackenzie Country and Mount Cook National Park or just want to know what “Matariki” means, feel free to reach out to us directly.
For availability & rates, contact Phillipa
at +64 274 957 046.