In early 2010, Chris Madison and Damian Chaparro discussed their shared interest in creating a transition space for those interested in nature, adventure, self-development, alternative health, and results-oriented fitness. Excited by their common views of the world, and the potential transformative impact of such a project, the concept of Aro Hā was born. Located on the South Island of New Zealand, Aro Hā is just 40 minutes drive from Queenstown. Arriving at Queenstown’s International Airport (ZQN) is breathtakingly easy. A place where consecutive days are rarely alike, Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of the world. Aro Hā was born of the intention to create a facility that exemplifies a more resilient localised living solution. From Permaculture, to Passive Haus techniques, we’ve attempted to integrate best practices for solving the essentials of life. Our 8.4-hectare site (about 21 acres) sits on a sub-alpine terrace with expansive views of Lake Wakatipu. Here we’ve merged ancient traditions with modern technology. So, while crops are stored in cellars, refrigerated by the ambient temperature of the earth, the site is monitored by a state-of-the-art building management system, allowing efficient conversion of sun and water to energy. The vision is Zen inspired luxury, where the luxury comes from intelligent design, function of space, and exceptional programming, rather than opulence or excess. Never before have all these elements been combined to provide such a rich guest experience. The facility is designed for group interaction. Our ancestors shared spaces. They moved together. They ate together. They played together, and so do we.