Better by a country mile. When Mount Deluxe were approached to brand Karaka Village, an 81-hectare Auckland housing development complete with a working farm, we recognised the challenge in capturing its unique properties – to create a brand story and visual identity that would authentically represent the balance between rural charm and contemporary living.

Inspired by the interlocking wooden fence posts that are found throughout the village, I designed a circular ‘K’ logo icon that serves as a visual metaphor for the development. Its stamp-like aesthetic pays homage to traditional cattle branding symbols while delivering a modern graphic treatment. It’s country life – made easy.

Karaka Village represents more than just a housing development; it’s a vision of modern rural lifestyle, where working farmland meets thoughtfully designed homes and community-focused amenities – “the best parts of rural life, without the rough edges.”

From the multi-room sales suite, to print and digital advertising, every element has been carefully crafted to communicate the development’s “better by a country mile” narrative. Smaller brand pieces, such as brochures and price lists, through to the larger pieces, such as bespoke steel wayfinding structures throughout the development, express a cohesive and immersive experience that invites potential residents to imagine – and then enjoy – their new rural lifestyle.

Agency: Mount Deluxe. Creative Director: Sarah Delaney.