French Investor Expands Queenstown Footprint with Eureka House Purchase
A French investor known for his affinity for Queenstown has expanded his local portfolio with a significant purchase in The Mall. Jean-Pierre Fourcade, who previously acquired the side-by-side Winnies and Madam Woo buildings in 2017, has now acquired Eureka House for $19,156,950. The deal marks the investor’s third historic property within Queenstown’s coveted retail and hospitality precinct, underscoring a sustained confidence in the town’s heritage sites and their ongoing appeal to international capital.
What Eureka House Brings to The Mall
Eureka House is part of Queenstown’s storied streetscape, combining historic charm with modern utility. The two-level property, nestled in the heart of The Mall, has long been valued for its character and location. The latest acquisition by Fourcade is seen as a strategic move that complements his existing holdings, which include the Winnies and Madam Woo properties—known for their distinctive facades and strong pedestrian traffic. The combination of these sites positions him to leverage synergies across retail, dining, and experiential spaces that attract locals and visitors alike.
Why The Mall Remains a Drawcard
The Mall is a focal point for Queenstown’s tourism-led economy. Its mix of high-end retailers, lifestyle brands, and award-winning hospitality venues draws travellers from New Zealand and abroad. Ownership of multiple adjacent or nearby properties can offer operators and investors greater control over tenancy terms, branding consistency, and visitor flow. For international buyers like Fourcade, these assets also represent a tangible tie to a popular global destination with a resilient demand profile regardless of seasonal shifts.
Implications for the Local Market
The multi-property investment by a renowned international investor signals continued appetite for Queenstown’s historic real estate. While the town has seen fluctuations in tourism and seasonal occupancy, properties with heritage value and premier locations have historically demonstrated durable value. The Eureka House purchase could influence nearby property dynamics, potentially encouraging more investors to pursue era-defining buildings that offer both lifestyle appeal and commercial upside.
Investor Profile and Strategy
Fourcade’s approach has centered on acquiring landmark structures within Queenstown’s most walked-and-photographed streets. By adding Eureka House to his portfolio, he reinforces a strategy based on acquiring properties with strong curb appeal and enduring cultural significance. The latest deal also expands his capacity to curate tenant mixes across hospitality and retail tenants that align with Queenstown’s brand as a premier travel destination.
Conclusion
The purchase of Eureka House for more than $19 million cements a growing narrative: Queenstown remains a magnet for international investors seeking landmark properties in one of New Zealand’s most beloved towns. With a third property now under his belt in The Mall, Fourcade’s footprint in Queenstown is set to influence future discussions around heritage conservation, property values, and the evolving character of this globally recognised destination.
