Surrounded by blue lagoons and year-round warm breezes, Motu Tiano, an approximately 20-acre private island, is to be sold at auction, offering buyers the rare opportunity to purchase their very own piece of paradise. Located just a few hundred metres from the larger island of Raiatea, the second largest of the Society Islands and widely recognised as the birthplace of Polynesia, Motu Tiano is protected by the main island and features calm waters with deep sea and lagoon access for sport fishing, surfing, and scuba diving. The Polynesian-style main home includes a dock, boat house, modern amenities, and sleeping accommodations for up to 15 guests. The unique property is to be auctioned by Concierge Auctions, a luxury property auction house favoured by celebrities and discerning vendors all over the world. Currently listed at $11.88 million USD, the property will be sold at or above $6 million USD at auction on 23 August 2017 in cooperation with Maima Sylvain of Agence Jeanine Sylvain.
Constructed by the previous owners, the property was designed by a French architect to the traditional style of island properties in the area. With a spacious living/dining area, three double bedrooms, and separate staff quarters, the home is well appointed internally and further benefits from the unique feature of a personal wharf, equipped for yacht mooring. The wharf further offers a covered dining space and provides direct access to ocean, ideal for those with a passion for water sports. The property’s lush tropical gardens include palm trees and allow for views across the lagoon to the mountains beyond.
Despite the timelessness of Motu Tiano, the island home is fitted to contemporary standards, with electricity, water, and internet and cell service. A caretaker is in full-time residence on the other side of the lagoon to provide a management and security service, offering convenience for a vendor not living full time on the island.
Raiatea’s capital of Uturoa is accessible by boat in 20 minutes, from which an airport offers a 35-minute flight to Tahiti’s international airport. Uturoa benefits from a number of shops and restaurants and is also home to many ancient temples, volcanic peaks and the famous Black Coral Garden – a favourite destination for divers. The Society Islands are thought to have been named by Captain Cook during his voyage of 1769, before becoming a French protectorate in 1843 and have proved a source of inspiration and allure to visitors ever since, with Marlon Brando citing Tetiaroa, part of the archipelago, as the island that stole his heart.
Jim Simpson, vendor of the property, comments: “My wife and I have travelled widely but nowhere else in the world offers the natural beauty and tranquillity of Motu Tiano. The local people are so welcoming and helpful, and the French Polynesian culture still includes a number of ancient traditions, which have been passed down from generation to generation. Life on Motu Tiano is peaceful and relaxing, and we will very much miss our home here, but as we approach retirement, we have decided it is time to pass on this beautiful home to another owner.”
Cindy Jones, Concierge Auctions, comments: “This is an exciting sale which offers buyers the rare opportunity to buy an island home offering complete privacy and security. The lifestyle which comes with a home on Motu Tiano would suit a buyer or family keen to make the most of water sports on the lagoon and sailing routes to surrounding islands. The unique nature of the property makes it a lucrative vacation rental prospect, offering buyers an additional income stream.”
Concierge Auctions will conduct previews of Motu Tiano from Wednesday – Saturday from 1-4pm and by appointment. To book an appointment, register your details at www.conciergeauctions.com.
For more information, call +212 202 2940. Or, contact Alice Lacey of Four Communications at 020 3697 4357 or alice.lacey@fourcommunications.com.
