In terms of stylish good looks, this house at the base of Mt Ruapehu has much to commend it. But it also works hard for its residents and the environment. The 184sqm property perched beside its own pond, and with a jetty, is a passive house, meaning it adheres to strict rules around warmth, airtightness and energy performance. Designed by certified passive house expert Jason Quinn, the three-bedroom property has large north-facing windows, triple-glazed German joinery, an extra-deep RibRaft concrete floor and super-thick walls with Intello wrap (an air-barrier membrane). The internal MVHR (mechanical ventilation with heat-recovery system) is a German-made Stiebel Eltron. As a result, despite the house being 800m above sea level and in a high wind zone, it requires minimal heating. It’s kept at a constant 21 degrees. As well as maintaining this comfy temperature, the home, clad in vertical Oblique weatherboard, offers many visual treats.

The open-plan kitchen, dining and living space (as well as the main-bedroom suite) face the mountain. When you’re not gazing at the alpine scenery, you can admire the black kitchen with its splashback made from slender tiles in earthy hues. Serving two bedrooms is a bathroom with tiled walk-in shower. The main-bedroom ensuite also has a tiled walk-in shower, plus a luxurious bath. The large laundry and utility room are icing on the cake.