Manunui Estates — Our History
A vision for a special place
The story of Manunui began in the early 1990s, when the owners first recognised the extraordinary potential of a rugged and largely undeveloped coastal property near Pakiri.
What had once been farmland was envisioned as something very different — a place where people could live amongst native bush, abundant birdlife and spectacular coastal landscapes, while respecting and protecting the natural character of the land.
The name Manunui, meaning “many birds” in Māori, was chosen to reflect this vision. It was a fitting name for a property where the restoration of native habitat would become an important part of its future. Over the years, that original vision has gradually become a reality.
Restoring the land
When the property came under new ownership, much of the land had been affected by years of farming and grazing. The native undergrowth had been heavily depleted, and introduced animals had placed considerable pressure on the regenerating bush.
An important part of the vision for Manunui was to restore the land and encourage its natural environment to flourish once again.
The owners began working to protect the existing native bush, improve fencing and reduce the impact of grazing animals. As the land was given the opportunity to recover, native vegetation began to return.
Over time, an extensive planting programme followed, with more than 100,000 native plants established throughout the estate.
Today, the difference is remarkable. Areas that were once open and degraded have become increasingly sheltered and green, providing habitat for native birds and other wildlife. The regenerating bush is now one of the defining characteristics of Manunui.
And in many ways, the name has become a self-fulfilling vision — Manunui truly has become a place of many birds.
Creating a coastal community
The vision for Manunui was never simply about creating individual properties. It was about creating an environment where people could enjoy the freedom and beauty of rural coastal living while ensuring that the natural character of the estate would be protected for generations to come.
Infrastructure and services were carefully introduced to allow homes to be established while retaining the sense of space, privacy and connection with nature that makes the property so distinctive.
Native bush, open landscapes, mature trees and expansive coastal views remain central to the character of the estate.
Protective covenants have also helped ensure that the natural qualities of Manunui remain an important part of its identity as new homes and families have become part of the community.
A place shaped by nature
One of the most rewarding aspects of Manunui's history has been watching the land change over time. Regeneration does not happen overnight. It is a gradual process, and the transformation of Manunui has taken place over many years. As native plants have matured, the landscape has become increasingly green and sheltered, creating a richer environment for birds and wildlife.
The surrounding native bush provides a feeling of being immersed in nature, while the elevated position of many parts of the estate creates sweeping views across the surrounding countryside and towards the coast and islands beyond.
It is this combination of nature, space, privacy and spectacular coastal scenery that makes Manunui such a special place to call home.
A legacy for the future
From its beginnings as farmland, Manunui has evolved into a unique coastal estate where homes sit amongst a landscape that continues to regenerate.
The original vision was to create something lasting — a place where people could build their own homes and enjoy a wonderful rural lifestyle, while respecting the land and helping preserve its natural beauty.
Today, Manunui is home to a growing community of families who share this special environment. Each new home becomes part of the broader landscape, surrounded by native bush, birdlife and the extraordinary beauty of the Pakiri coastline.
The story of Manunui is ultimately a story of vision, restoration and respect for the land.
What began decades ago as a vision for a special piece of coastal countryside has grown into a distinctive community — one where nature remains at the heart of everyday life.
And as the native bush continues to grow and the birds continue to return, the meaning behind the name Manunui — “many birds” — becomes more fitting with every passing year.