Perched amongst native bush above the sands of Tata Beach, this beautifully considered coastal retreat brings together architecture, landscape and the extraordinary setting of Golden Bay.
Recently recognised in the 2026 NZIA Nelson/Marlborough Architecture Awards, the house was designed by architect John Chaplin as a private family holiday home created for long summer days, extended family gatherings and quiet escapes throughout the year.
A home made for gathering.
From the moment you arrive, the house feels immersed in its setting. The approach through the bush gives way to a warm timber interior, with living spaces elevated above the landscape and expansive views stretching across Golden Bay.
Generous living areas open onto a series of sheltered decks, creating natural places to follow the sun throughout the day from morning coffee in the bush to afternoon drinks overlooking the water.
The accommodation has been thoughtfully arranged for family and guests, with well-proportioned bedrooms and quieter spaces tucked amongst the trees. There is room to come together, but equally, space to retreat. Off-street parking adds everyday convenience to this retreat.
A dramatic picture window frames the panorama across Golden Bay, while carefully positioned openings draw the surrounding native bush into the house. The result is a home that feels connected to its landscape without being overwhelmed by it.
Life at Tata Beach
This is a house designed around the pleasures of being here.
Wake to native birdsong. Take your coffee onto the deck and watch the tide move across the bay. Spend the afternoon between sun and shade, or retreat to the sheltered pool deck when the breeze arrives.
As evening falls, the changing light across Golden Bay becomes part of the interior, with the main living space capturing the last glow over the water.
The wrap-around decks provide multiple outdoor living spaces, allowing the house to respond to changing weather, seasons and moods. It is as suited to a relaxed summer holiday as it is to a winter weekend away.
Designed for its landscape
The site is steep, heavily vegetated and technically demanding. Rather than flattening the land or imposing on the hillside, the design works with what was already there.
A pole-platform foundation allows the house to touch the slope lightly, while the predominantly CLT structure prefabricated in Nelson enabled a highly precise construction process in a remote and challenging setting.
Inside, the exposed timber structure brings warmth, simplicity and a strong sense of craftsmanship.
Externally, durable materials have been selected with the coastal environment in mind. Precoated steel cladding offers low-maintenance protection, while Corten steel balustrades are designed to weather naturally over time.
High-performance wall systems and thermally broken joinery provide warmth and shelter throughout the year. Carefully considered glazing captures the spectacular outlook while maintaining comfort, privacy and protection from the elements.
A rare opportunity in Golden Bay
Tata Beach House is more than a holiday home with a view. It is a carefully resolved piece of architecture, shaped by its site and designed around the way people actually live, gather and relax.
For those looking for a coastal escape with genuine architectural pedigree, a strong connection to nature and the flexibility to accommodate family and friends, this is an exceptional opportunity to own a home in one of Golden Bay's most beautiful settings.
A private coastal retreat. An award-recognised home. A place to return to for years to come.
Private viewings available on request. For further information, please speak with Graham Fielding
Deadline closing (will not be sold prior)
2pm, Thu 5 Nov 2026
208 High Street, Motueka
