116 Manuwai Drive, Matua, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty
Tauranga, New Zealand
Guide Price
$1,386,500
2,350,000 NZD
PROPERTY TYPE
house
BEDROOMS
5
BATHROOMS
3
Description
This home tells its story the moment you arrive. It's not driven by trends or fleeting design choices, but by substance, character, and a quiet confidence that's impossible to replicate. Every space has been carefully considered, delivering scale, elegance, and craftsmanship that feels both refined and enduring. The result is a residence that captures the romance of a European villa while offering the comfort and sophistication of contemporary living. Designed to support real family life, this home is exceptionally well suited to larger, blended, or multi-generational households. Set across two generous levels and connected by a lift, it allows each generation to live together without compromise. Multiple living zones - including a flexible kitchenette and an existing bar or recreation space - create natural separation when needed, while still encouraging connection when it matters most. Tucked away at the end of Manuwai Drive, this secure, gated property offers rare privacy in a tightly held enclave. Framed by established walls and adjoining a reserve with a playground, the setting feels peaceful and protected, with the added sense of waterfront living just moments away. Elevated outlooks take in sweeping views of the ocean, Matakana Island, and the Kaimai Ranges - a panorama that becomes part of daily life. Leisure and lifestyle are seamlessly woven into the design, with an in-ground swimming pool, waterslide, and a 13-person spa creating a space where family and friends will naturally gather. Whether it's relaxed weekends or lively celebrations, this home is designed to be enjoyed. Practicality is equally well addressed, with triple internal-access garaging, a Tesla charging point, extensive storage, and ample off street parking. This is not simply a place to live - it's a home that supports the way families grow, evolve and create lasting memories for years to come. For access to all property documentation, please visit the following link, select the "Documents" tab and 'Download File': https://rwbayfair.co.nz/BYF32925
Location
Open in Google MapsLiving in Tauranga
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
Billy Russell - Distinction Realty Ltd (Licensed: REAA 2008) - Ray White Bayfair
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


