If homes could take selfies, this one would be that shot with the mountains photobombing in the background. Sitting on 1.65 acres with a creek meandering lazily through, it’s modern design meets old-school tranquility, just two minutes from town yet worlds away from the rush.

Built recently to a high spec with efficiency and elegance in mind, this four-bedroom retreat nails the balance between clean lines and homely warmth. Summer? Slide open the floor-to-ceiling doors and let your dinner parties spill out onto decks and patios. Winter? Intelligent heating solutions keep everything toasty, so you can watch the snow on the ranges while you stay snug.

The open-plan living makes a statement. Pitched ceilings give it volume, lush carpets soften the step and the kitchen is a knockout, with an oversized island, freestanding induction stove, birch ply detailing and stone benchtops. The walk-in pantry doubles as your backstage pass to domestic calm, shelving every jar and appliance in perfect order.

Each of the double bedrooms has its own deck (yes, all of them), so everyone gets their own slice of sunshine and seclusion. The master brings the walk-in wardrobe you secretly measure other homes against. Clever built-ins, desks in the guest rooms, and a wet-room bathroom with a sky window that makes showering profound. Add in a guest powder room and study nook, and the checklist ticks itself.

Step outside and you’re in resort mode: spa bubbling with a sundowner in hand, outdoor shower rinsing off summer swims, tropical planting setting the scene. An oversized carport handles the everyday, while a four-bay shed with separate access caters to the boats, bikes, tools, or that side hustle you’ve been threatening to take seriously. The brand new solar system with 16 panels and Tesla Powerwall is a massive plus along with the wetback and whole house water filter system.

This is Kaikōura living at its sharpest and the kind of setting that makes you think, “Do I really need a holiday when I live here?”