Q&A

‘We want our contribution to Hau-Moana’s story to be one of luxury, generosity and happiness’

IF THE HOUSE WAS ON FIRE, WE’D SAVE: The 1790s longcase grandfather clock with a beautiful hand-painted face we bought a few years ago. We’d save that because of the history, as it was already 50 years old when Te Tiriti o Waitangi was originally signed. That’s if we could carry it out the door.

OUR DECORATING STYLE IS: Casual-luxe, with a mix of high Victorian and relaxed beachside elegance. Also lots of sparkle, because it’s inviting and happy, and informal Kiwi style, because that’s how we were brought up and that’s what we love about Aotearoa New Zealand.

OUR DREAM HOME WOULD BE: We’re already living in it, as we often feel as if we’ve won Lotto to have this home and to be able to live right next to Wellington’s best beach. However, we’d also love to live somewhere like Palm Springs with its fantastic mid-century modern style, or the absolute beach elegance Hawaiian Gothic style of the Moana Surfrider hotel, right on the water at Waikiki Beach, Honolulu.

THE BEST THING ABOUT LYALL BAY IS: The great neighbourhood and casual living. It’s a diverse community, with local entrepreneurs, surfers and kite-boarders, artists, dog lovers, great bands (it’s the home of Fat Freddy’s Drop) and cool cafes and bars.