907 Tuapeka Mouth Road, Balclutha, Clutha, Otago
Queenstown, New Zealand
Guide Price
$225,620
389,000 NZD
PROPERTY TYPE
house
BEDROOMS
1
BATHROOMS
1
Description
In the peaceful village of Tuapeka Mouth, a truly unique sanctuary awaits at Saint Augustine Church, where character, simplicity and comfort come together for inspiration. Bathed in natural light, this beautifully reimagined former church showcases original
features including stained-glass windows, thoughtfully balanced with contemporary upgrades and open-plan living. The sunny north-facing aspect, combined with a wood burner as the primary heat source, creates an atmosphere that feels invitingly spacious and wonderfully toastie through the cooler months. Large double-glazed sliding doors open out to an expansive, private deck, ideal for relaxing or entertaining, with fencing providing a sense of peace and privacy. As evening falls, the wood-heated spa pool becomes the ultimate place to unwind beneath the exceptionally dark, pristine night skies. Stargazing here is outstanding, with the occasional “train of lights” gliding silently overhead. The off-grid property is powered by nine solar panels and gas, with roof-collected rainwater. Further upgrades include electrical improvements, a refurbished roof and insulation, along with a thoughtfully updated kitchen featuring modern appliances (included), gas cooking and a granite benchtop. Additional enhancements comprise a heated outdoor shower, a separate outdoor toilet building, and a new septic system ready to be connected to the new kitchen and indoor bathroom (all STCA). Most of the hard work has been done in preparation for conversion to residential living subject to council requirements. Set on a fully fenced, level section of approximately 4,199sqm (+/-), the property is pet-friendly and thoughtfully landscaped with established trees, a developing food forest, useful outbuildings, rainwater storage, and ample space for vegetable gardens, chooks, a few farmyard woollies, creative projects, and RV storage. This generous land was originally used to park horse-drawn carriages when the church was built, a charming nod to a slower era. The surrounding rural setting brings a deep sense of tranquillity, with sheep, cows and horses
nearby completing the country atmosphere. Built in 1918, Saint Augustine Church has stood through generations in an area steeped in history. The
nearby Tuapeka Punt (the Clutha Interislander) adds further character, while the wider landscape is rich in gold-mining heritage, with gold historically found throughout the surrounding area, though the church grounds themselves have never been prospected. A local swimming pool offering seasonal passes provides a much-loved community hub during the warmer months. Practicality is well catered for, with the school bus stopping right at the gate, Clutha Valley Primary just 10 minutes away, and South Otago High School approximately 25 minutes in Balclutha. Centrally located, Tuapeka Mouth is around 25 minutes to Lawrence and approximately one hour to Dunedin Airport, a central secret for those seeking peace, balance and connection. Perfe
Location
Open in Google MapsLiving in Queenstown
New Zealand's adventure capital set against dramatic Southern Alps scenery, popular with outdoorsy types who want skiing, hiking, and bungee jumping on their doorstep. It's a small town (about 50,000) that runs on tourism, meaning seasonal work is common and housing costs are inflated well beyond what the town's size would suggest. A stunning place to live if you can afford it and don't mind the isolation.
Morning surf before work, weekends tramping through Lord-of-the-Rings landscapes, and a laid-back culture where shoes are optional and nature is never more than ten minutes away.
Visa
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa — points-based system requiring a skilled job offer in NZ. New pathways opening August 2026 for trades workers and those with 5+ years experience. Accredited Employer Work Visa is the faster route if you already have a job offer.
Learn more: The Complete Guide to Moving to New Zealand→Key Fact
NZ has strict biosecurity laws — importing food, plants, or outdoor gear can result in heavy fines. The work-life balance is exceptional, but the job market is small and remote from everywhere.
Learn more: What You Need to Know Before Moving Abroad→New Zealand at a glance
How New Zealand scores for American expats
Cost of buying in New Zealand
Estimated fees and ongoing costs for this property
Closing Costs
3-5% of purchase price
- ·No stamp duty
- ·Legal/conveyancing: NZ$1,500-3,000
- ·Building inspection: NZ$500-800
- ·LIM report: NZ$300-400
Annual Costs
Property Tax
0.3-1.5% of government valuation (varies by council)
Insurance
NZ$1,500-3,000/yr
HOA / Condo Fees
NZ$300-600/mo for apartments (body corporate)
Good to Know
Agent Fees
Seller pays (2.5-4%)
Foreign Buyer Note
Foreign buyers BANNED from existing homes (2018 ban). Can only buy new-build apartments in large developments.
Legal help in New Zealand
Hire your own attorney — not the seller's. We'll match you with a vetted local lawyer.
Need a local attorney in New Zealand?
We'll connect you with an independent, English-speaking real estate attorney experienced with foreign buyers. Not the seller's lawyer — yours.
Contact Agent
Lucy Hibbert-Foy - Otago Realty Group Ltd (Licensed: REAA 2008) - Bayleys
Next steps for moving to New Zealand
Interested in this property? Here's how to move forward.
Understand the buying rules
Foreign ownership laws vary wildly by country. Some welcome you, others restrict or ban foreign buyers entirely.
Sort out your visa
Owning property doesn't give you the right to live there. Research residency options before you buy.
Plan your finances
Understand currency risk, international wire transfers, and whether you can get a local mortgage.
Know your tax obligations
US citizens are taxed on worldwide income. You'll need to file US taxes from abroad and may owe local taxes too.
Set up healthcare
Medicare doesn't cover you overseas. You'll need international health insurance or a local plan.
Run the full checklist
Banking, mail forwarding, power of attorney, pet import rules — the complete pre-move checklist.
realestate.co.nz
NZD


