Feature article

NBR Rich List 2026: Where do New Zealand's wealthiest live?

From 30 million dollar mansions to a mattress on the floor.

16 June 2026

AI summary

The NBR Rich List 2026 reveals diverse housing choices among NZ's wealthiest. While some, like the Zuru founders and Graeme Hart, own lavish estates and megayachts, others show different priorities.

- Steven Adams famously prefers a minimalist apartment.

- Filmmakers Peter Jackson and James Cameron have invested in the Miramar Peninsula and Wairarapa.

This contrast highlights a trend where new tech wealth may favour modern, connected homes in key lifestyle locations across New Zealand.

The Mowbrays: From Mum's garage to Kim Dotcom's mansion

Steven Adams: Keep it simple (very, very simple)

Graeme Hart: Property diversity at the top end

Sir Peter Jackson's Wellington: more than just Middle-earth

James Cameron: Trading Hollywood for the hills of Wairarapa

The new wave: where NZ's new rich might land

SkyView, Oropi, Bay of Plenty

More modern than modern, this aptly named "SkyView" home is exactly what we imagine our rich and famous would be looking for - spacious, private and close to the airport.

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Award-winning SkyView lifestyle property in Oropi, Bay of Plenty, listed on Trade Me Property

Boomrock, Ohariu, Wellington

Complete with a private race track, claybird shooting facilities and sweeping views that make you feel like you're the only person on earth. Plus, there is plenty of space to plot your dream home.

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Boomrock estate in Ohariu, Wellington, featuring coastal views across Cook Strait, listed on Trade Me Property

107 Arney Road, Remuera, Auckland

The epitome of modern, sleek concrete and steel architecture on one of Remuera's most sought-after streets.

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Architect-designed concrete and steel home at 107 Arney Road, Remuera, Auckland, listed on Trade Me Property

32 Vista Terrace, Drift Bay, Queenstown

Carved into the landscape at Drift Bay, this small (well, small for this end of the market) but mighty home has all the bells and whistles making it the perfect hideaway for a busy entrepreneur.

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