McArthur Ridge, Central Otago
Located in the pristine high country land around Alexandra, McArthur Ridge is bounded by the spectacular mountain ranges and alpine plains that characterise the Central Otago region. Studio Pacific’s masterplan for the development of the 800 hectare rural McArthur Ridge Estate incorporates the historic qualities of this former sheep station area and protects and enhances its wide open spaces, expansive skies and panoramic outlooks.
The site is close to the local centre of Alexandra and the historic township of Clyde, as well as less than an hour’s drive from the tourist hubs of Queenstown and Wanaka, allowing it a feeling of proximity to shopping, restaurants and other activities while simultaneously preserving its sense of remoteness.
A central feature of the project is a world class 18-hole golf course designed by New Zealand golfer Greg Turner; other amenities include a five-star hotel lodge, conference facilities, organic vegetable gardens, a cheesery, a cellar door and a health spa. The residential environment is openly-spaced and offers a varied mix of housing typologies. Materials such as local stone, corrugated iron and timber will reflect the qualities of the high country farming heritage.
Large areas of the existing vineyard property are planted in pinot noir grapes and provision has been made for further plantings, which will be integrated to form part of the landscape character of the development. The masterplan also connects with and extends the region’s popular scenic walking, horse-riding and biking trails.
Client: Melview Developments Ltd.
