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Remote Lake Tekapo property amid the tussock has caught the eye of US media

This remote Lake Tekapo retreat was designed to sit quietly in the rugged landscape, with spectacular views.

Last updated: 19 August 2026 | 3 min read

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A remote Lake Tekapo property, Lilybank, has gained international attention, featuring in the Wall Street Journal. Designed by architect Charlie Nott, the five-bedroom home was built by Wilson Building in Timaru and relocated to the 199ha site.

The design uses cedar and Corten steel to blend into the rugged landscape. Key features include a separate boardroom, a self-contained hut, and minimal outdoor lighting for dark sky views. Listed with NZ Sotheby’s International Realty, it's for sale from "mid $6 million".

The couple had a 406m² house designed by architect Charlie Nott and built by Garry Wilson in Timaru. It was trucked to the site in four pieces. Photo: NZ Sotheby's

Once the trucks reached the shingle road, the trip slowed to a crawl. Photo: Supplied

As planned, the house nestles unobtrusively into the rugged landscape. Photo: NZ Sotheby's

There are great views at every turn, and a hot tub to make the most of them. Photo: NZ Sotheby's

North American cedar is teamed with Corten steel on the exterior. Photo: NZ Sotheby's

Rooms are separated and enclosed for “snuggle comfort”, with each one framing a slice of the view. Photo: NZ Sotheby's

The main living room is fully lined with timber. Photo: NZ Sotheby's

Timber also features in the kitchen, where it is teamed with dark olive green cabinetry. Photo: NZ Sotheby's

This is the self-contained boardroom, set to one side of the main house. Photo: NZ Sotheby's

A few hundred metres from the house and 900m above sea level, the Sally Hut provides fun guest accommodation. Photo: NZ Sotheby's

Plywood lines the interior of the hut - from top to bottom. Photo: NZ Sotheby's

This aerial picture shows the position of the separate buildings on the block. The owners say there is council permission to add another bedroom wing if desired. Photo: NZ Sotheby's

Author

Colleen Hawkes

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