Beautiful architecturally designed Home in beautiful,Lake Ohau.
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.
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 20114301
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
About the area
Ohau
Ohau is home to this holiday home. Ohau Skifield and Ladybird Hill Vineyard are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Lake Ohau and Lake Ruataniwha.
Is Beautiful architecturally designed Home in beautiful,Lake Ohau. pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total).
How much does it cost to stay at Beautiful architecturally designed Home in beautiful,Lake Ohau.?
As of 15 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Beautiful architecturally designed Home in beautiful,Lake Ohau. on 4 June 2026 start from AU$553, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Where is Beautiful architecturally designed Home in beautiful,Lake Ohau. located?
Situated in Ohau, this holiday home is 0.8 mi (1.3 km) from Lake Ohau and 9.9 mi (16 km) from Ohau Skifield. Twizel Town Centre and Mueller Ridge are also within 25 miles (40 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Beautiful house, in an amazing spot wiht beautiful views of the mountain. Its a very special place i wish i was there for longer ! The lake ohau is stunning.The host were very accomodating and great communication
Cozy, welcoming, and sooooo warm with beautiful views and everything we needed for our stay. There’s so much to do here - the hiking is epic, the ski field is outstanding, and what a base to do it from! Highly recommend to anyone looking to really switch off and unwind.
Ariana S.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Oct 2025
What fabulous photos!! I love youR dog . Hope you can make it back to Ohau one day
All the best
Janet
We had an amazing stay! Lake Ōhau is an absolute must-visit the scenery is breathtaking. The house itself was incredibly comfortable and perfectly equipped for a large group, striking a great balance between feeling luxurious and homey. We couldn’t have asked for a better spot to relax and enjoy the area. Highly recommend!
Jo T.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Nov 2025
Jo and co were great guests. They were very good communicators. They left the house clean and Tidy. I would highly Recommend Jo and frIends to Anyone hosting And hope they return to Lake Ohau one day. They will always be welcome back to The Brown House
A beautifully designed home with a great story. Excellent shelter from the gale force winds we experienced. Janet's communications were timely & purposeful.
Cal H.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
About the host
Hosted by janet muir
Languages:
Italian
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests