Gulf Harbour: Seaside bliss

Magnificent scenery, stunning water views and premium amenities close by make this Gulf Harbour development an extraordinary destination.

With more and more of the Gulf Harbour landscape being developed into luxurious sea-side residences, it was only a matter of time before this spectacular residential village took shape - offering the perfect balance of community and retreat.

Armada Shores has 18 apartments, 38 cabanas and 16 homes superbly crafted to meld into the already captivating topography.

Architect David van Ryswyk was determined to take advantage of this spectacular site and set about designing a residential village exuding a timeless sense of being.

"Nowhere in New Zealand is there a coastal white architectural development. Most go for the New Zealand green and brown tones. I wanted a lighter feel that reflected the Mediterranean white architecture."

Overlooking the Eastern Boat Harbour, the crisp, white homes will offer residents a modish lifestyle complementing the natural environment.

Pitched and flat roofs will cleverly interrupt the skyline, delicately matched with subtle copper and cedar tones.

Emulating a nautical theme, the aesthetically pleasing homes will have a cohesive presence sweeping back from the water.

Cantilevered over water, the three-level apartment buildings neatly edge the development. Back further are the cabanas, then the homes. Stunning landscaping blends the complex to create a perfect haven ideal for relaxed living.

LAYOUTS

The single-level apartments are designed to maximise the views. A glass vista spanning the front of the apartment allows views across the road to the harbour. Living areas and the master enjoy this spectacular outlook with the other bedrooms positioned towards the front.

Large balconies with glass balustrades provide excellent al fresco living and the open-plan living areas offer plenty of space for entertaining.

Similar hues from the exterior materials are picked up internally, with wooden floors in the living areas and tiles in the bathrooms and kitchen. The bathrooms are a luxurious retreat and have large showers, beautifully finished with natural stone tiles.

The three-level cabanas comprise basement parking, the living areas on the second level opening to a tiled balcony, and bedrooms above. Once again, the spacious layout caters for easy entertaining.

Another option is the two-level cabana, which has parking and living on the lower level with the bedrooms above. The master opens to a generous terrace.

The houses, many with their own pools, combine pitched and flat rooflines in the one dwelling. Backing onto the golf course, these homes are designed with family living in mind.

Throughout all the dwellings a cohesive theme is achieved with a similar palette of materials. Says Ryswyk: "The base shell is timeless and can take all kinds of accessories so as not to date the properties."

LANDSCAPING

The complex has been cleverly landscaped in the pursuit to make the area a visual feast. Features include brown schist walls, ample plantings between car parks and properties, a large pool and recreation area and plenty of road access to minimise congestion.

Says Ryswyk: "The undulating site had all the ingredients - it's a peninsula in the Pacific and a yacht harbour. What more could you want."

Vital Statistics

ADDRESS: Armada Shores, Gulf Harbour.

FEATURES: 12 three-bedroom and six four-bedroom apartments with sea views, 38 three- and two-level cabanas and 16 one- and two-storey homes, many with their own swimming pools; white architecture with copper and cedar tones; car parking; Smeg oven, hob and dishwasher; landscaped common area with pool.

SIZE: Apartments from 140sq m; cabanas from 145sq m; houses from 188sq m.

PRICE: From $535,000.

CONTACT: Brendan Cody 021 448 716 or Gulf Harbour Realty 09 428 0600.