Tara Iti Residence

Located within the Tara Iti golf resort to the south of the Mangawhai estuary and bordering the beachfront to the north of Te Arai Point, the property provides commanding views over the surrounding golf links, dunes. Distant sea views towards the Hen and Chicken Islands and Whangarei Heads are an added bonus. RMM's landscape design vision for this stunning residence was to ensure the existing ‘wild and untamed sand dune landscape’ was not compromised. The design incorporates the dunes that fold and wrap around the site to complement the various spaces and create a sense of ‘living within the dunes’. Design elements include a sunken fire pit, private spa deck, sculptures, subtle amenity lighting and a private golf green. A large undulating lawn links the house and the dunes. Plants were carefully selected for their sculptural, seasonal variation and ecological benefits. The range of native plant species is suitable and tolerant to coastal conditions, sea breezes and sandy soils. The dune system and mass native planting provide habitat for local invertebrate and native bird species. The selection of materials, colour and textures all provide a connection with the site's surroundings and the wider landscapes, whilst complementing the architectural interior/exterior of the residence.