Often the greatest joy in wandering is the return home.

Enter through secure gates, and be transported to a six hectare haven of vineyards, pasture and a calming combination of still water, tall trees, and extensive, manicured gardens and walkways.

The extraordinary home, spread among an enclave of buildings, is equal parts Provence, Santa Fe, Mountain Cabin and American farm. The private main residence features large living and dining rooms with high, beamed and vaulted ceilings and coved hallways, while the expansive chef's kitchen, media room and bedrooms are a rough-hewn, beamed-ceiling cottage style. The house is stuccoed inside and out. The separate guesthouse, set at the back of a formal English garden, has two large bedrooms, full bath with clawfoot tub, a gym, vaulted ceilings and a fireplace, with lake and ocean views.

The entire home is a study in blended colours and textures, grounded by handcrafted details and reclaimed Rimu wood floors throughout.

French and folding doors create indoor/outdoor entertaining areas, with spacious wraparound decks, wisteria-covered pagodas, a heated saltwater swimming pool and a raised, cedar spa.

Short drives to Mapua Village, Motueka, and Richmond, Nelson city centre is an easy 35 minute ride, half an hour from Kaiteriteri Beach and the Marahau entrance to the great Abel Tasman National Park.

It is said that when the world goes on vacation they come to New Zealand, and when New Zealanders go on vacation they come to the Nelson area. This Awa Awa Road home epitomises the artistic and dynamic lifestyle for which the region is famed.