THE PLATEAU
Buyers Information
Here you will find an overview of our vision and expectations for the Plateau development. Please reach out to us to obtain our comprehensive Design Guidelines for The Plateau. We’re happy to provide a copy and answer any questions you may have.
The Plateau - An Exclusive and Private Rural Lifestyle Development - Hokitika, NZ
Architecture
Sustainable Living. Timeless Simplicity.
OBJECTIVES
The architectural objectives at The Plateau celebrate a deep connection between dwelling and landscape - architecture that harmonizes with the land rather than imposed on it, Sensitive rather than Showy, Sensibility rather than Spectacle.
Buildings should embrace the Kyokai principle, where the threshold between indoors and outdoors is softened - through verandas, covered decks, and spaces that are both sheltered and open to the elements. Roofs, as the most expressive architectural element, should respond thoughtfully to the West Coast climate, providing protection and comfort in high rainfall while shaping the home’s character and harmony with its setting. Windows and openings should frame views, invite natural light, and enhance the sense of openness - blurring boundaries between interior living and the surrounding wilderness.
Architecture at The Plateau is guided by restraint, balance, and respect for the natural contours and ecology of the site, creating homes that feel rooted, enduring, and quietly in tune with place.
THE PROCESS
Our Proven Processes have been refined over the last three decades for producing beautiful, high-performance homes. Your Dream Team starts with an experienced designer who will recommend the best suited builder for you and your type of project. One with a proven track record and appropriate experience and capabilities in constructing high-performance homes. Your team commonly includes consultants like a surveyor, structural & geotech engineer, quantity surveyor and key subbies & suppliers.
THE DESIGN BRIEF is an important document that will be referred to throughout the design process, helping to guide the creation of your perfect home. There are many important considerations to prioritise. Base, Better or Best Superhome standards provide guidance for ideas that align with your budget. We will help you develop a thoughtful design brief that will be a valuable resource throughout the project process.
THE DESIGN CONCEPT creation starts after research and analysis of the site, property constraints, local planning rules and legal requirements etc. Then your own requirements and ideas will be discussed before applying our creative expertise, energy, and big ideas. The Design Concept stage can sometimes involve exploring different options as part of the process.
CONCEPT PLANS are developed, discussed and approved prior to the next stage. A 3D model with 3D renders are created, providing you with the first glance of your new home. Technical details for the preferred level of performance and specifications are then confirmed to suit your budget.
COST ESTIMATES are prepared by a quantity surveyor or contractor from the design concept plans and outline specifications. Adjustments can be made if required to better suit the budget before proceeding to the documentation stage. This cost initial estimate is to confirm that the design is to your approval and fits the budget, providing confidence to proceed. After the documentation is completed, a contract price can then be provided.
ENERGY MODELING is carried out as part of our design process to confirm optimal energy efficiency and carbon footprint. This is best done early in the project process for accreditation. Energy modeling is often overlooked by many designers & architects, but is vital in confirming that your new home will be equipped with the right systems to stay at a desired temperature year-round. High-performance glazing proportions, ventilation, shading, and the correct orientation of the house are all optimised utilizing energy modelling.
CARBON FOOTPRINT. Bob Burnett Architecture homes are designed to minimise their carbon footprint and climate impact. Preference is given to non-toxic low-carbon materials and methodologies. In contrast, typical kiwi homes built to code minimums are responsible for 5-7 times the carbon emissions required to meet global climate change targets. Holistic design allows different systems to work together to optimise performance.
DOCUMENTATION is the most time intensive stage, involving preparation of detailed working drawings and specifications for building consent approval and a quote for construction. Our documentation is very thorough and clear to follow, providing certainty for the contractor enabling favourable pricing and a smooth construction.
BUILDING CONSENT. Processing times for building consent approval vary for the different councils. Good design with thorough detailed drawings and specifications speed this process.
CONSTRUCTION. We can assist vetting and selecting the best builder for your project and advise on getting the correct building contract in place. Additionally, site observation and contract administration can be provided during the build phase.
FINISHING TOUCHES. Once built, airtightness testing is carried out for all projects to confirm Base, Better or Best standards. This is a quality check of the construction and confirms it meets the specifications and will be energy efficient, durable and provide for a comfortable healthy internal environment.
(Source: Bob Barnett Architecture)
Purpose Of The Guidelines
The Design Guidelines for The Plateau Hokitika are a framework to ensure that every home and landscape choice contributes to the sanctuary we are creating together. They are not rules of restriction, but a shared vision — guiding residents to design with the land rather than against it. Rooted in kaitiakitanga, these guidelines protect the integrity of the whenua, foster harmony between architecture and nature, and encourage creativity that honours simplicity, beauty, and ecological care. By weaving principles of regenerative, biophilic, and organic design into every decision, the guidelines ensure that The Plateau remains a place of healing and renewal — where buildings rest lightly, communities thrive, and people live in true dialogue with the natural world.
The Plateau DRP (Design Review Panel) has the responsibility of assessing whether a project complies with the Design Guidelines and is in harmony with nature and the ethos of the development. It reviews the proposals and assesses these against the high level objectives and controls as set out in this document. If some guidelines and controls are not met the DRP has the right to approve the proposal if it aligns with the objectives.
In support of these objectives, all design submissions for The Plateau are required to include comprehensive documentation demonstrating alignment with the Superhome Design principles and the sustainability aspirations of the development. This includes:
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Architectural drawings and an outline specification, clearly detailing construction materials, systems, and design measures that contribute to low-carbon outcomes, durability, and long-term building performance; and
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A detailed landscape plan and planting schedule, illustrating how the proposed design integrates with the natural environment, enhances biodiversity, and aligns with The Plateau’s landscape and ecological objectives.
These documents will collectively demonstrate the project’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and enduring design integrity, forming a key component of the approval process.
The DRP is a collective of professionals selected for their expertise and for their deep understanding of the vision and values of The Plateau. Their role is to support homeowners and their design teams in creating homes that honour the land, reflect the Design Guidelines, and contribute to the shared sense of place. In many cases, if the principles of the guidelines are met, the review process is a seamless extension of the normal design journey. At times, the DRP may work more closely with owners and consultants to refine proposals, ensuring outcomes that are both authentic to the site and aligned with the regenerative ethos of The Plateau. The costs of the DRP’s review process are to be covered by the applicant.
Westland District Council Consenting
In addition to approval by The Plateau Design Review Board (DRP), all proposals require standard Westland District Council (WDC) Building Consents. Where aspects of a proposal fall outside permitted activity standards, a Resource Consent under the Westland District Plan may also be required. It is the responsibility of the applicant to confirm what additional consents may apply. While some of the information required for Council and DRB approval may overlap, the areas of assessment differ. Each property at The Plateau is also subject to development controls set out as part of the original consent for the project. These may include height limits, access requirements, setbacks, or provisions for landscape protection and retention of native planting. The Plateau team or Westland District Council can assist in clarifying whether any of these apply to your property, and copies of the relevant documents are also registered on your land title.
Land Covered by The Plateau Design Guidelines:
These Design Guidelines apply to all 14 lots shown on The Plateau Subdivision Plan Figure 1.
Landscaping
Shinrin-yoku
OBJECTIVES
The Plateau embraces the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku. Join us in discovering the profound benefits Shinrin-yoku - an ancient Japanese practice of engaging your senses with nature for your overall well-being.
Shinrin-yoku in landscaping involves creating a "forest bathing" environment for stress relief by designing a space that encourages sensory connection with nature, rather than just focusing on aesthetics or manicured perfection. Landscaping can be used to create a natural, immersive experience by incorporating elements like native plants, layered vegetation, multi-stemmed trees, and sensory features like a water element or specific smells.
Building A Secure Future
Bespoke Passive
Home Designs
The Plateau opens a gateway to bespoke architectural design, where your dreams meet our vision for sustainable living. We are dedicated to crafting sustainable homes that not only reflect your lifestyle but also respect the environment. With a commitment to quality and meticulous attention to detail, we ensure every aspect of your home is a perfect blend of your aspirations and our expertise.
Secure Gated Community
Welcome to The Plateau, where you can experience complete peace of mind while building your dream home in our spacious gated community. Surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty of the West Coast, our harmonious living environment offers both tranquility and privacy. Enjoy the assurance of being part of a safe and secure community, making every moment in your new home a cherished experience.
Sustainable Building Practices
Our recommended builders prioritize innovative building practices that harmonize nature. Our commitment to craftsmanship and environmental responsibility drives us to use materials that minimize ecological impact while ensuring aesthetic appeal, durability, and sustainability. We believe that each property should not only be uniquely designed but also respect and enhance its natural surroundings.