Article Photo

The magic of Mangawhai: You could win this haven near the sand dunes

26 Jun 2024

Imagine winning this home near the sand and sea. The sleek, dark Resene exterior of this first-prize, three-bedroom home is striking against Mangawhai’s clear blue skies. The extensive deck is perfect for entertaining guests during the warmer months, with access into the main living area through two sets of sliding doors. You can even enjoy a winter sunset from the comfort of your couch! 

As a popular holiday destination in the North Island, Mangawhai has an array of activities to keep you occupied. Take a stroll along the stunning Cliffs Walkway, taking in breathtaking coastal views. On a clear day, you can even see the Coromandel Peninsula and Great Barrier Island/Aotea on the horizon.  

That’s why Lottery Operations Manager, Liz Halpin, chose to return to this location for another fantastic Lottery first-prize home.  


The open-plan livingarea features Resene Sea Fogpaintedon the walls and Resene Alabaster on the ceiling and trims. 

“This is the second time we’ve had a home in Mangawhai in the past two years,” explains Liz. “Last year, it proved to be a popular location with our ticket holders, so we’re delighted to be back.”  

“Mangawhai is one of those quintessential Kiwi holiday spots, with stretches of golden sand and calm waters for swimming. It’s also seen some impressive growth in the township and is now a great place to live permanently or holiday at, with all the amenities you need within a short drive.”  

Alongside Liz, Jennian Home Rodney’s in-house interior designer Alexandra Hyndman worked on bringing this first-prize home to life using some stunning Resene colours. She shares her creative process and how she created a harmonious balance in the home. 

What was your design brief? 

“To create a neutral, modern and sophisticated home that reflects the relaxed and calming nature of the Mangawhai landscape and would appeal to the wide range of people who buy the Heart Foundation Lottery tickets.” 


The exterior features Resene Quarter Ironsand and ReseneBokara Grey, two dark shades that are striking against the coastal setting.

What colours did you choose?  

“On the exterior, we have used Resene Quarter Ironsand with Resene Bokara Grey as dark and natural toned colours to meet the requirements of the unique environment and desirability of the Whai Awa development. 

On the interior, we have used Resene Alabaster for the ceiling and trims, and paired this with Resene Sea Fog on the walls. To me, these are tried and true colours that enhance the sophisticated palette – while still reflecting the beauty of Mangawhai.” 


“For a special touch of colour, the master bedroom has a feature wall of Resene Dark Slate – a dark, restful green to add a layer of luxury,” says Alexandra. 


One of two other spare bedrooms is adorned with the timeless neutral of Resene Sea Fog on walls, with the ceiling and trims painted in Resene Alabaster 

What was your favourite aspect of the design? 

“I really love the soft sheer fabric we have used in the master and front bedrooms. This has added to the harmony of the space and creates the privacy without blocking out the sun.” 


The kitchen features darker cabinets which complement the neutral walls in Resene Sea Fog and ceiling and trims in Resene Alabaster.

What was your biggest challenge when designing this home? 

“It wasn’t so much of a challenge, but a bit of a risk. We decided to go bold with a dark green kitchen. I think this was a brave choice – but one that has really paid off! It looks like a real statement in the space without being overwhelming.”  


The white tones carry through to the bathroom where they make for a tranquil and refreshing retreat. The walls arepainted in Resene Sea Fog and ceiling and trims in Resene Alabaster.

In partnership with its long-time key supporter, Jennian Homes, the Heart Foundation Lottery offers the life-changing first prize of a fully furnished home seven times each year. 

Lottery homes are built in lifestyle destinations throughout New Zealand and finished in Resene paints and stains. 

You can support the Heart Foundation Lottery by purchasing tickets at heartlottery.org.nz. Funds raised from the Lottery go towards life-saving heart research and heart disease prevention programmes, keeping New Zealand families together for longer. 

For your chance to find out more about the Heart Foundation Lottery and win this home, click here. 

Top tip: If you’re using a dark colour outside, use the Resene CoolColour version of your colour to help reflect more heat and keep your paint and home cooler. 

images Incredible Images  

furniture and staging Alexandra Hyndman, Jennian Homes Rodney 

Published: 26 Jun 2024