NZ lodge makes list of top properties for sale

New Zealand's most exclusive hunting and fishing lodge has appeared on an international list of the top 20 properties for sale in the world.

The 7000ha Poronui Station, which went on the market last September for $62 million, has been listed in Forbes Magazine alongside top homes throughout Europe, the United States and Asia.

"We might not have included Poronui Station in our list were it not for the estate home that anchors it," said Forbes of the property overlooking the Taharua River valley near Lake Taupo. "After all, it is so much more than a residence."

The magazine praised the scale of the retreat, its network of creeks, seven guest cabins and wildlife.

American banker and avid fisherman Mark Blake and his family have owned the station since 1998.

Andrew Johnson, a spokesman for Mr Blake, said last year that putting the dream property on the market was a tough decision.

Forbes described the scale of Poronui's buildings and their position on its list of the world's best houses.

"The activities complex features a gym, sauna, steam and massage area, billiards room, kitchen and equestrian facility.

"The main house was built in 2000 on a plateau overlooking the Taharua River. With five bedrooms and five baths, it is done in an elegant, rustic style, with hardwood beams, river rocks and slate floors.

"No need to worry about getting there - Poronui Station is equipped with a private airstrip and helipad."

Bill Leckie, at Colliers International in Wellington, said the station had drawn strong international interest, particularly from American and Europeans.

But the property was yet to sell.

Mr Leckie, who has the station listed with Auckland-based John Goddard of Colliers, said he was particularly impressed with the quality of brown trout he had caught at Poronui.