Chris Jacobs is a new breed of developer. This Waiheke resident and businessman believes in going beyond the resource consents to ensure the sanctity of the natural environment is not just respected, but also enhanced.
He has transformed a 38-hectare block of rolling farmland on Waiheke Island into the idyllic park-like Wawata Estate where there are 25 residential sites available.
Wawata is a Māori word Chris chose for its meaning: to desire earnestly, long for, yearn for, daydream, to aspire.
Sitting high on the Thompson’s Point Ridge between two of Waiheke Island’s best beaches, the exclusive residential Wawata Estate development honours the seascape, the contours of this northwest facing land and the native flora and fauna that abound in the area.
The golden sands and tantalising waters of Palm Beach are just a short walk or drive down the hill. Onetangi Beach — the more expansive of the two and one of the island’s culinary enclaves — is just minutes’ drive away.
Chris says: “From the outset, my goal at Wawata has been to create one of the finest developments in New Zealand, with a commitment to unprecedented quality and detail in every aspect of the estate.”
On Waiheke Island, where such prime coastal property, and even developed homes, are in scarce supply, the sites range in size from 3,000sqm to 3 hectares (7.5 acres). Prices start from $1,950,000 with the majority of the first few sales being between $2—$3 million.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a family home for future generations,” Chris says. “Wawata Estate is an ultra high-end gated establishment – pristine natural parkland of 38 hectares with 25 homes.”
The views are unparalleled, spanning more than 180 degrees across the sparkling waters of the Hauraki Gulf – from Rangitoto in the west, over landmark islands to glimpses of Coromandel Peninsula in the east. The layout, size and shape of each residential site has been designed in response to the landscape, archaeological features, views, ecology and neighbouring properties.
House sites occupy just 15 percent of the total land area. Private walkways have been developed for residents. A thoughtfully designed 3.5-kilometre trail through native bush and alongside wetland habitats within the estate has been established for the exclusive use of residents. The track connects to public walkways leading to nearby Palm Beach, and beyond.
Chris and his team have taken every care to re-establish the environment of the land, planting 300,000 native trees and plants – mānuka , kānuka, flaxes, sedges, kowhai and puriri to name a few. New pōhutukawa trees have also been welcomed, joining those already in residence – ancient gentle giants, that stand guard over this special place.
“It is really important to me personally and to every member of my development team that Wawata Estate is completely at home with Waiheke Island and the Hauraki Gulf,” he says.
“We have used locally sourced stone for the entranceways and sculptures by Waiheke artists enhance the natural beauty of the Waiheke landscape.
“In essence, we have created a peaceful sanctuary that invites wildlife and provides privacy and seclusion – for them as well as humans.”
Acknowledging the importance of water supply on Waiheke, Wawata has its own bore to ensure residents a backup supply to the house tank catchment.
“Wawata Estate is designed to give homeowners peace of mind and the best of semi-rural island living, but without the cares that normally come with a lifestyle block,” Chris says.
“This is where residents can immerse themselves in the relaxing Waiheke Island lifestyle where we have award-winning restaurants and vineyards; beautiful beaches; leisure activities like walking, mountain biking, shopping and beauty spas; and watersports like yachting and kayaking.”
He says Wawata Estate is ideal for people who are retired or semi-retired, or who work from home, or who wish for a sanctuary for themselves and the next generations of their families.
“Importantly, for anyone keen to connect with all that Auckland city offers, in terms of jobs, shopping, entertainment and other activities, the trip across the bay is an enjoyable one – and at 30-40 minutes a pretty speedy one, no opportunity for road rage here!”
Waiheke Island is serviced by Fullers ferry service, operating out of Auckland’s downtown, as well as from Devonport on the North Shore. This arrives at Matiatia, 10 minutes from Wawata. There is also a vehicle ferry, with passenger facilities, operating between Howick’s Half Moon Bay or Wynyard Quarter and Kennedy Point, eight minutes from Wawata.
And, as a special gift for Wawata buyers, Chris presents them with a VIP Wine Club membership at award-winning Tantalus Estate Vineyard, one of the finest vineyards on Waiheke – a fitting way for them to toast one of the best decisions they have ever made.
The gates of Wawata Estate are open each day for you to visit this amazing development and choose your dream site. For a personalised tour, contact:
Matthew Smith | Ray White Waiheke
021 924 435
matthew.smith@raywhite.com
wawataestate.co.nz
Waiheke Real Estate Limited Licensed (REAA 2008)
