Back to Tauranga, New Zealand

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

116 Manuwai Drive, Matua, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty - Photo 2
116 Manuwai Drive, Matua, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty - Photo 3
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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 Maps

Living 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
See all New Zealand listings

New Zealand at a glance

How New Zealand scores for American expats

💰Cost of Living
Expensive
🛡️Safety
Very safe
🗣️English Spoken
Widely
🏥Healthcare
Excellent
🌬️Air Quality
Clean
📶Internet
Moderate
🚶Walkability
Moderate
🚇Transit
Limited

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.

1

Understand the buying rules

Foreign ownership laws vary wildly by country. Some welcome you, others restrict or ban foreign buyers entirely.

2

Sort out your visa

Owning property doesn't give you the right to live there. Research residency options before you buy.

3

Plan your finances

Understand currency risk, international wire transfers, and whether you can get a local mortgage.

4

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.

5

Set up healthcare

Medicare doesn't cover you overseas. You'll need international health insurance or a local plan.

6

Run the full checklist

Banking, mail forwarding, power of attorney, pet import rules — the complete pre-move checklist.

Source

realestate.co.nz

Portal listings

Currency

NZD