While many precious Christchurch landmarks were lost to the devastating 2011 earthquake, others have emerged better than they’ve ever been and the iconic 66 Oxford Terrace apartment building, opposite the Avon River, is certainly a case in point.

Grant Thomas, development manager at Russell Property Group, explains that the company bought the entire quake-damaged building just before the first Covid-19 lockdown in 2020 and they made use of those quiet months to design and complete plans for an exciting refurbishment, which has now come to fruition.

“We were able to retain the bulk of the original structure but thanks to innovative New Zealand engineering it is now greater than 100% of the current code,” says Thomas, confirming that the building is exceptionally sound and safe, with excellent green credentials.

“We saved it from demolition and in doing so retained 1300 tons of embodied carbon from the existing structure.”

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Most of the other as-new apartments were quickly snapped up as they came to market, only now has the jewel in the crown – a luxury three-bedroom penthouse on the 11th floor – been released for sale.

Holding the best till last, this uniquely designed penthouse at 11/66 Oxford Terrace in Christchurch Central, is already attracting a great deal of interest from discerning buyers. The penthouse goes to auction on December 14.

The 237sqm apartment occupies the entire top floor of the building and enjoys 360-degree views that will be envied.

11/66 Oxford Terrace, Christchurch Central

The penthouse has three bedrooms, four bathrooms, two car parks and multiple living areas. Photo / Supplied

11/66 Oxford Terrace, Christchurch Central

The master bedroom ensuite has a bath in which to relax and enjoy the view. Photo / Supplied

By day, the new owner can enjoy the wide vistas, along the Avon River and out towards the Port Hills and the Southern Alps or capture the nearby atmosphere of people enjoying the riverbank and newly regenerated Christchurch CBD. And at night, see the city lights sparkle as residents enjoy the many shops, bars, cafes and clubs.

All three bedrooms make the most of the available views, and each have a fully tiled luxury ensuite, the master even providing a bath in which to relax and enjoy the view. With two living areas and a 32sqm balcony, there is ample room to relax whether by the gas fire in winter or entertaining friends alfresco in the summer.

Complemented by the open-plan kitchen and dining, the living area is crisp and contemporary, featuring large picture windows to maximise the vistas. In addition to the ideal location and stunning views, buyers are being attracted by the high-quality materials that have been used across the project.

Oak floors, ambient lighting, a gas fireplace and top-of-the-range appliances are just some of the features on offer.

11/66 Oxford Terrace, Christchurch Central

The apartment building is on the banks of the Avon River and the Botanic Gardens and Hagley Park are practically on the doorstep. Photo / Supplied

11/66 Oxford Terrace, Christchurch Central

The 237sqm apartment occupies the entire top floor and enjoys 360-degree views. Photo / Supplied

Listing agent Adam Heazlewood, of Bayleys, is marketing this exceptional property and says that it enjoys, arguably, the best apartment location in the CBD.

“Russell Property Group really delivered on this one and interested parties have included previous residents, empty-nesters and local and out-of-town buyers keen to enjoy the change of scenery.”

Heazlewood says that as well as elevator access and basement parking for two vehicles, including electric car charger and a separate 15sqm storage unit, a huge added bonus is the versatile ground floor utility unit – an additional 18sqm with fully tiled bathroom that could easily adapt as a private gym, wine cellar or office.

On the banks of the Avon and with the Botanic Gardens and Hagley Park practically on the doorstep, there is plenty of opportunity for outdoor recreation.

As apartments of this calibre rarely come to market, this is an opportunity not to be missed, that Heazlewood believes will likely break previous sale price records.

- Sponsored by Bayleys