Riverfront Home, Paihia

This striking riverfront home near the Waitangi River in Paihia showcases the enduring beauty and strength of Oamaru Stone. Designed with longevity and elegance in mind, the client, Trevor Woolston, chose Oamaru Stone for its timeless appeal and proven durability, inspired by the limestone buildings of the South Island. The project began with a 1400km journey to Parkside Quarries, where Trevor, his wife, and their builder explored stone finishes, viewed homes for inspiration, and met master stonemason Ian Gold. Due to the specialised nature of the material, Ian and his team travelled to Paihia for a dedicated three-week installation using tools and stone transported directly from Oamaru. The home features meticulous stonework throughout, including a matching pool fascia for seamless design, and combines classic materials with modern living, featuring full home automation. One unexpected challenge highlighted the density of Oamaru Stone: it’s so solid it required signal boosters to allow smart features to function across the property. Now 21 months post-completion, the home continues to stand up beautifully to the elements, a true testament to the craftsmanship and material selection. Designed to last generations, this build is a perfect example of how natural stone can enhance both form and function.