As Australia deepens its economic ties with China — and welcomes more real estate investment into its markets — its neighbor to the east is keen to get in on the action. On Tuesday, New Zealand Prime Minister John Key met with Alibaba founder Jack Ma to advocate for closer business relationships between Kiwi and Chinese businesses. According to the New Zealand Herald, during the meeting, Ma expressed interest in buying a home in New Zealand. The land made world-famous by the Lord of the Rings, he said, is already home to at least 20 of his colleagues enjoying early retirements. With an estimated wealth of $23.3 billion, Ma is China’s richest man and, according to Forbes, the world’s 33rd richest man. Should he decide to take the plunge, Mansion Global presents five prime properties currently available in New Zealand.
What’s on the Market in New Zealand
Queenstown
New Zealand Sotheby's International Realty
PRICE: Upon request For European flair in a New Zealand setting, Jack Ma might consider this five-bed, four-bath, 7,200-square-foot manor located just 15 minutes from downtown Queensland. Outside, expansive gardens are spread across 10 sprawling acres; inside, classic Continental flair. As an added bonus for the globetrotting billionaire, the international airport is just five minutes away. View this listing
Hunter Valley Station, Lake Hawea
New Zealand Sotheby's International Realty
PRICE: Upon request If Ma’s $23 million purchase of 28,100 acres in New York’s Adirondacks is any indication, the e-commerce tycoon loves the outdoors. He might consider adding a New Zealand ranch to his growing collection of properties. This scenic high-country farm sits on 16,000 acres abutting Mount Aspiring National Park — a World Heritage Area — and includes a working sheep and cattle farm. View this listing
Waitaria Bay
New Zealand Sotheby's International Realty
PRICE: $6.9 million If a sheep farm isn’t to Ma’s liking, perhaps he’d prefer a winery? This property’s 12-acre vineyard produces several grape varieties, including sauvignon blanc and pinot gris. Still not enough? This oceanfront estate also comes with a deep-water mooring and miles of horse-riding trails. View this listing
Mapua Leisure Park
New Zealand Sotheby's International Realty
PRICE: Upon request Ripe for development, this 30,000-acre waterfront sanctuary is currently in use as a campgrounds. This property is at once isolated and connected — specifically, to the mainland via a causeway. The artsy town of Nelson, popular with tourists, is just a further 20 minutes away, and the surrounding area is renowned for its fishing, hiking and golf courses. View this listing
Saint Heliers, Auckland
Christie’s International Real Estate
PRICE: Upon request Finally, New Zealand isn’t just hills, valleys and rustic living. This ultra-modern six-bed, four-bath sits high in Saint Heliers, a seaside suburb of Auckland with a tiny population of just 5,000. The property features a specially designed wine cellar, parking for six cars and breathtaking views of scenic Rangitoto island. View this listing