Tonight | Grand Designs New Zealand on ABC: a Central Otago castle tests its new owners – Ryan Sanders and Marco Creamers take on a century-old Central Otago homestead, hoping to turn it into luxury accommodation. It airs Thursday 15 October 2026 at 8.00pm on ABC and ABC iview.
The restoration offers a striking example of the gap between a romantic first impression and the approvals, costs and repairs involved in a protected heritage building.
Season 10 episode 1
The couple fall for Earnscleugh Station Homestead near Clyde and buy the eight-bedroom property within minutes of their first visit. It is known locally as Earnscleugh Castle.
The Category One heritage status makes consents complex. A leaking roof and unfinished exterior add practical challenges to an already ambitious plan.
What looked like a straightforward restoration becomes more expensive and difficult than expected. The season opener follows the couple as they try to protect the building’s history while making their new use for it viable.
Grand Designs New Zealand Season 10 episode 1 airs Thursday 15 October 2026 at 8.00pm on ABC and ABC iview.
Find more ABC coverage on TV Central and visit the official ABC iview service for viewing information.
