The Brown House – Lake Ohau
The original Brown House was designed by award-winning architect Lisa Webb of Studio LWA and built by owners Richard and Janet Brown of Henry Brown and Company Ltd in 2009.
Tragically, the house was lost in 2020 during New Zealand’s worst fire disaster, which devastated the entire village of Lake Ohau.
The decision to rebuild was an easy one, and once again, Lisa Webb’s architectural brilliance was enlisted. Given the fire risk and the challenges of building in a remote alpine environment, some modifications were made, but the result remains just as stunning.
Brown House 2
This beautifully crafted, four-bedroom retreat accommodates up to ten guests. Each bedroom offers breathtaking views, while The Hideout features a skylight for stargazing. The house includes two living areas, one with a cozy nook and a roaring fire. For those needing to stay connected, there is a dedicated office space. The home features two bathrooms, one with a luxurious Ofuro Japanese soaking tub.
The fully equipped kitchen boasts:
• Two ovens
• Induction cooktop
• Dishwasher
• Wine fridge
• Large French-door refrigerator
• Coffee machine
A Spectacular Location – The Southern Alps & Mackenzie Basin
Lake Ohau is located in the heart of New Zealand’s Southern Alps, within the Mackenzie Basin—a vast, high-country region renowned for its dramatic landscapes, pristine lakes, and breathtaking night skies. The area is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the best places in the world for stargazing, with minimal light pollution allowing an unparalleled view of the Milky Way.
Surrounded by towering mountains, glaciers, and crystal-clear lakes, Lake Ohau is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the region’s highlights include:
• Skiing & Snowboarding – The Ohau Ski Field offers uncrowded slopes, stunning views, and excellent conditions for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
• Water Activities – Boating, water skiing, kite surfing, and canoeing on Lake Ohau and nearby lakes and rivers.
• Fishing – The region is famous for its trout fishing, with brown and rainbow trout thriving in the cold, clear waters.
• Gliding – Omarama, just a short drive away, is one of the world’s premier gliding destinations, offering spectacular views over the Southern Alps.
• Hiking & Trekking – Explore the rugged mountain ranges, native beech forests, and alpine meadows, with trails suitable for all levels, from easy walks to challenging alpine treks.
• Cycling – The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, one of New Zealand’s most spectacular multi-day rides, passes through Lake Ohau, offering breathtaking scenery along the way.
• Hunting & Wildlife Viewing – The surrounding high-country stations and conservation areas provide opportunities for hunting red deer, chamois, and tahr, while nature lovers can enjoy spotting native birds and wildlife.
Wildlife & Natural Beauty
The Mackenzie Basin is home to a unique mix of native and introduced wildlife. You may spot:
• Kea, the world’s only alpine parrot, known for its intelligence and playful nature.
• New Zealand falcons (Kārearea) soaring above the mountain ridges.
• South Island robins, bellbirds (Korimako), and tomtits in the native beech forests.
• The endangered Black Stilt (Kakī), one of the rarest wading birds in the world, found in nearby braided river systems.
• Himalayan tahr and chamois, introduced species that roam the alpine slopes.
• Stars of the Night – The region's dark sky reserve status makes it one of the best places in the world for astronomy, with unmatched views of the Southern Cross, Magellanic Clouds, and even the occasional aurora australis (Southern Lights).
An Unforgettable Stay
Lake Ohau is a place you will never forget—a breathtaking retreat in one of the most beautiful regions of New Zealand.