When Robb Report recently explored the trend of wealthy Americans looking to New Zealand as their next great destination, it highlighted a shift many of us here have been seeing for some time. High-net-worth individuals are no longer just visiting New Zealand for holidays, they are seeking to live, invest, and create legacies here.

New Zealand offers something rare in today’s world: a blend of safety, space, and connection to nature that can be difficult to find elsewhere. Add to that political stability, world-class architecture, and a lifestyle focused on balance and wellbeing, and it is easy to see why interest from American buyers is growing rapidly.

Why Queenstown Is Leading the Movement

Queenstown, in particular, has become the epicentre of this interest. With its dramatic landscape of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables, Queenstown offers not only unrivalled scenery but also a way of life that seamlessly combines adventure, culture, and refinement. Michelin-worthy dining, vineyards, ski slopes, and hiking trails sit alongside cutting-edge architecture and design.

“Queenstown is the perfect choice for those who want privacy and peace, while still being connected to the very best experiences life can offer,” says Andrew McIntosh, Owner and Director of The Design Group and the visionary behind Waimarino Lodge. 

Parore: A Standout Example

One of the most striking properties currently available is Parore, an architectural masterpiece now listed on JamesEdition. Designed to blend seamlessly into its surroundings while offering world-class luxury, Parore captures the essence of modern New Zealand living.

“Parore is more than just a home,” McIntosh notes. “It is a statement about what luxury here really means, authenticity, connection to the land, and design that endures.”

Why This Is Good for New Zealand

The growing presence of international buyers is not just about property sales. It brings meaningful benefits to New Zealand communities:

• Local builders, architects, craftspeople, and suppliers gain opportunities from high-value projects.
• The influx of international residents encourages cultural exchange and global connections.
• Demand for premium properties raises standards in sustainability, architecture, and design across the industry.

This philosophy is at the heart of Waimarino Lodge, which aims to deliver an experience rooted in integrity, authenticity, and respect for its environment.

Looking Ahead

For Andrew and The Design Group, this is just the beginning. Several new high-end properties across the South Island are nearing launch, each crafted to reflect the best of New Zealand living.

New Zealand may once have been a hidden gem, but today it has become a destination for those seeking not just a home, but a place to build a legacy.