Prominent New Zealand apartment and hotel operator, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/safari-group">Safari Group</a>, is offering up a prime investment opportunity for Australians to purchase off the plan in one of the world’s most popular ski destinations.

They recently took to market Mountain Oak Queenstown Apartments, in the growing precinct of Remarkables Park in Frankton, near the airport and at the foot of The Remarkables - the mountain range the locals like to call “The Remarks”.&nbsp;

Sydney investors have shown interest in the one, two and three-bedroom apartments that secure high-season occupancy six months over the year, primarily over summer and winter months.

They average 90 per cent occupancy across their portfolio over January, February, March, August, November and December, while shoulder season months of April, July, September and October are still occupied 70 per cent of the time, with the growing appeal of Queenstown becoming not just a hotspot for the snow, but a lifestyle destination.

Even in the low seasons of May and June, occupancy levels reach around 40 per cent.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Ext_Cam15_Sunny.jpg?VersionId=SJAROUM_1s.Tr5ciMk4EEj5oAt_Vewmv" />

Safari’s Safari Hotels arm can also manage the holiday letting for an investor, from the listing on holiday accommodation websites such as Airbnb and Booking.com to the cleaning and maintenance of the investment. They’ve been in the short stay management business for 15 years and offer 24/7 support for investors, an important convenience benefit for any overseas investor

Another major drawcard for Australians is that New Zealand doesn’t have a stamp duty policy - so the entry price of NZ$639,000 (AU$586,000), is all that is payable on completion.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/313_Livingv2_WEB.jpg?VersionId=nV229fM0ZeYpoxOrX372HyGjfwY_LR8c" />

Safari is starting construction of the 141 apartments in Q2 this year, with a two-year build estimated to complete in mid-to-late 2027.<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="15" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXczFpFAb7WuA6f4f9TtKWcqXyNwR8qqtakWv352ERkpqNlP3KwIo8YKxw67jZNHfpjEGIZGv5MQTbnvLZwNt8iu9IVdOrswOjCvBZ4zhSoOOLrpt6etVEZTN1gkBho0r_R72zdHNA?key=yq3daOanqHSb88QFd8jGYKdb" title="Click and drag to move" width="15" />​

The apartments will feature modern amenities and contemporary designs with expansive windows capturing sweeping views of The Remarkables mountain range.&nbsp;

Interiors are equipped with modern finishes, premium appliances, and secure electronic key-locked doors, ensuring a comfortable living experience for residents and guests alike.

With its strategic location near Coronet Peak and Cardrona Alpine Resort, as well as key retail and dining precincts such as Market Street, Five Mile Shopping Centre, and Remarkables Market, Mountain Oak offers a strong proposition for investors seeking high rental yields and capital appreciation in one of New Zealand’s most sought-after locations.&nbsp;

Queenstown’s sustained demand for visitor accommodation and rental properties is underpinned by a shortage of housing options, attracting both local and international buyers.

Joel Robinson

Safari Group offers low-touch investment proposition in Queenstown’s popular ski fields district

Compared to the rest of Australia's eastern seaboard, the Sunshine Coast has been relatively quiet when it has come to new apartment developments.

Where the likes of Sydney, Newcastle, Gold Coast and Brisbane have boomed in the new development market, the Sunshine Coast has grown strongly but steadily while retaining its quaint village lifestyle.

It's been a scarcity of new development that Citimax Property Group has leaned into, with its second new apartment development in as many years in Kings Beach, just outside of Caloundra with a population of just over 3,000 people.

Fresh off the back of selling out Ocean Verge before it completed construction, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/citimax-property-group">Citimax </a> is well on its way to delivering its latest new apartment project to Kings Beach.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/ascend-kings-beach">Ascend Kings Beach</a>, on Moreton Parade just a few rows back from the beach, will comprise just 23 large-scale apartments when completed later this year.

a[smartcode_project:default project_id=137471 project_image_fid=323327]

Only six three-bedroom apartments remain, all featuring large internal living spaces and many with water views from the open plan living and dining area, and the balcony. They are priced from $1,275,000.

So far the development has been a hit with local downsizers from the South East Queensland region, Property &amp; Estates agents Rick Williams and Damian Brown note. That's been down to the house-sized proportions and inclusions that suit the downsizer demographic, things like a butler's pantry, expansive master bedrooms with walk in wardrobes and ensuites, and secure basement parking.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=137471 project_image_fid=323325]

There's also been a conscious effort by Citimax to create a lifestyle at Ascend. They have built into the development impressive amenity in the form of a swimming pool and recreation deck, and a gym.

Citimax secured the prime Moreton Parade site several years ago due to its proximity to the beach,&nbsp;boardwalk, cafes, and retail precincts, all within walking distance from Ascend.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=137471 project_image_fid=323326]

Ascend is one of the only new developments under construction in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/kings-beach-qld-4551">Kings Beach</a>, and the supply pipeline suggests there are few competing opportunities in the short to medium term to downsize into something brand new.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=137471]

Ascend Kings Beach, on Moreton Parade just a few rows back from the beach, will comprise just 23 large-scale apartments when completed later this year.

Citimax to continue to elevate Sunshine Coast living with Ascend Kings Beach

Walker Corporation has received Development Approval for its twin towers in Maroochydore City Centre, bringing 251 new homes to one of the country’s tightest residential real estate markets.

Comprising two 19-storey towers, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/sol-by-walker-maroochydore-first-ave-maroochydore">SOL by Walker</a> will feature a mix of one to four-bedroom apartments, townhouses and penthouses, anchored by ground-floor retail shops, bars and restaurants.

Walker Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer David Gallant said the approval for SOL by Walker is a major win for housing supply on the Sunshine Coast.

“The Queensland government’s development approval for SOL by Walker unlocks the first of many residential projects we have in the Maroochydore City Centre, which is adding 4,000 homes to the state’s housing target,” Gallant said.

“SOL will set a high benchmark for apartment living in the Maroochydore City Centre, creating exceptional spaces with high ceilings, excellent natural light and high-quality kitchens and bathrooms, all connected to a range of world-class amenities.”

“At ground level, the towers will include retail spaces ideal for a future cafe, bar or restaurant, complemented by new subtropical areas designed for social gatherings.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=319846]

SOL will feature a rooftop terrace with bookable function space, a resident library and a dedicated co-working area complemented by a recreational deck with a fully equipped gym, outdoor yoga and stretch zones, BBQ facilities with dining spaces, a communal vegetable garden and a sunset lawn.

Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said decades of planning had positioned the Maroochydore City Centre as one of the best locations for housing and high-quality inner-city apartment living.

“The State Government’s DA Approval for SOL will accelerate our housing supply on the Sunshine Coast in an area connected to jobs, transport, community services and great amenities, and SOL, alongside other apartments in the city centre, will help our region meet those needs,” Mayor Natoli said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=319847]

SunCentral Maroochydore CEO Amanda Yeates said the new city centre is becoming a popular location for apartment living, with more families choosing to call Maroochydore City Centre home.

“SOL will double the number of residents we have here in Maroochydore City Centre, bringing even greater vibrancy to the Sunshine Coast’s CBD. Families can enjoy the best inner-city lifestyle surrounded by cafes, restaurants, jobs and recreation spaces, all just minutes from the beach,” Yeates said.

Each apartment will have a dedicated car parking space with additional spaces for retail, providing a total of 379 parking spaces and 251 bicycle spaces.

RPM Managing Director Peter Neale, who oversees sales for SOL, said the strong interest from local buyers has reflected a growing trend of locals prioritising quality, location and superior amenities for their next home.

“It’s fantastic to see a mix of buyers including First Home Buyers eager to make SOL their first property purchase, with people really excited about Maroochydore City Centre’s ongoing evolution as the Sunshine Coast’s CBD,” Neale said.

“Walker’s proven track record of delivering exceptional developments has been a key drawcard, with SOL’s premium amenities and diverse housing options attracting a wide range of buyers.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=319853]

The one-bedroom apartments in SOL have been snapped up. The two-bedroom apartments start from $975,000 and three bedrooms, with a multi-purpose room, are priced from $1.39 million.

Construction is targeted to commence onsite in the second quarter of 2025, with the first residents moving in as early as Q3 2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=319851]

Maroochydore City Centre is Australia’s largest greenfield CBD, located next to large job networks including data and technology centres, hospitals, universities, schools and hospitality, and just a short walk from the beach. The project is being delivered as a partnership between Sunshine Coast Council, Walker Corporation and SunCentral Maroochydore.

The South East Queensland Regional Plan estimates that infill developments, including Maroochydore City Centre, will contribute to 70 per cent of the state’s new housing supply, equating to approximately 60,000 dwellings across the region.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147777]

Walker Corp Managing Director and CEO David Gallant said the approval for SOL by Walker is a major win for housing supply on the Sunshine Coast.

Walker Corp get sign off for SOL by Walker in Maroochydore

Sunset Boulevard in Surfers Paradise is a surprisingly untapped new development strip in Surfers Paradise. Surprising because it fronts the river and its neighbouring streets also don't have any high-rise apartment buildings of note which allows for unonbstructed views to the west, over the river, and back to the <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Surfers Paradise</a> skyline.

Roy Skaf's&nbsp;Macquarie York were the first to identify the riverfront street as a prime spot for a new apartment tower. In April last year they secured approval for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/sunset-residence-50-sunset-boulevarde-surfers-paradise">Sunset Residences</a>, 43 apartments across a 17-level tower&nbsp;50 Sunset Boulevard.

Then in November, Sydney-based developer YHY Group filed plans a few doors down for a tower which <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/qld/first-look-the-gold-coasts-largest-penthouse-pitched-for-new-surfers-paradise-tower">proposes the Gold Coast's largest ever penthouse</a>.&nbsp;

Now there are more plans for new apartments on the busy street. A private developer has submitted plans for a 17-level tower with 30 two, three and four-bedroom apartments at <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/15-sunset-boulevard-surfers-paradise">15 Sunset Boulevard</a>, just two apartments per floor,&nbsp;

<img alt="15 Sunrise Boulevard Surfers Paradise" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50fd8506-b39a-43fc-a29f-31583e8eaec4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/15%20Sunrise%20Boulevard%20side.png?VersionId=eVAW8ThKWtASfC.pJB60XTxDhv0rVbIS" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, the apartments incorporate large balconies intended to function as outdoor living areas, maximising natural ventilation and light.&nbsp;

BDA noted in their submission to the Gold Coast City Council that the&nbsp;project offers the opportunity to design an innovative architectural building and provide a higher residential density development to this central pocket of Surfers Paradise.

"The 17-storey residential apartment building is a modern take on the surrounding apartment buildings of the 70’s. With a refined façade and architectural language this building provides a welcome addition to this emerging pocket of Surfers Paradise."

Two recreational areas have been proposed: one on the rooftop of the 60-metre building and one on level 16. Level 16 will feature a gym, while the rooftop will offer a pool, hot and cold plunge pools, a fire pit, and seating areas.

<img alt="15 Sunrise Boulevard Surfers Paradise rooftop" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0aecd442-128f-4ce0-b659-4069198b7329" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/15%20Sunrise%20Boulevard%20rooftop.png?VersionId=8qmlXmdrbsZnKVL1wmuPsT6uRHbt76Oa" />

The 688 sqm site is located along a canal, providing waterfront views towards the HOTA precinct and the Surfers Paradise skyline.&nbsp;

It is zoned for high-density residential development with no height limit, aligning with the area's ongoing urban renewal.&nbsp;

First look: Surfers Paradise riverfront set for more new apartments

When the opportunity arose to secure a parkside development site in Carlingford on the outskirts of Parramatta, developer Mark Bainey jumped at the chance.

Bainey, who runs&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/capio-property-group">Capio Property Group</a>, had been looking around Carlingford for the best part of a decade but hadn't found the right site. That was until a 5,000 sqm block fronting both Moseley and Donald Streets on Harold West Reserve came up for sale.

“<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/carlingford-nsw-2118">Carlingford</a> boasts a prime central location that provides exceptional amenities,” Bainey says.

“Residents can enjoy top-tier education, a diverse shopping experience, and seamless transport connections, all just steps away from their front door.”

Capio is now selling apartments in the new project, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/blossom-carlingford-25-31-donald-street-carlingford">Blossom</a>, the only new development in Carlingford backed by the 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy by Resilience Insurance, the most comprehensive insurance apartment buyers can ask for, and not have to pay for.

The policy covers buyers from any structural,&nbsp;waterproofing, or weatherproofing issues, as well as any problems with MEPS (mechanical, electrical or plumbing systems).

“LDI provides future residents with the confidence to purchase, knowing their investment is protected—not only by our rigorous construction standards, but by an industry-leading and well-recognised insurance policy,” Bainey says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148093 project_image_fid=319996]

There are just 46 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments in Blossom, designed exclusively for the owner-occupier by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a>.

The apartments have been crafted to maximise natural light, featuring north-facing orientations, open-plan living areas, and floor-to-ceiling glass doors that lead to private balconies.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148093 project_image_fid=319997]

The apartments have been a popular choice with local families, with a 1,500 sqm private park as part of the development, as well as an onsite childcare on the ground level. Blossom will also feature a&nbsp;dedicated dog park with a wash station, and both indoor and outdoor gyms with wellness areas - all reflecting Capio’s vision of a liveable, community-focused environment.

"These features have been intentionally integrated to enhance the living experience for buyers who appreciate quality and convenience," Bainey says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148093 project_image_fid=319988]

On top of the rare prospect of living on a park, residents will also be just 600 metres from the new&nbsp;Carlingford rail stop, on the newly constructed Parramatta light rail network.

Construction of Blossom is already underway, with completion expected by mid-2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=148093]

On top of the rare prospect of living on a park, residents will also be just 800 metres from the new Carlingford rail stop, on the newly constructed Parramatta light rail network.

Beachside home in Seven Mile Beach, Tasmania sold

Staff reporter

Editor's Picks

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News