A wealthy American who bought the largest lake front property in New Zealand, has been revealed as broadcaster Matt Lauer.
American television presenter Matt Lauer is the mystery American behind the sale of Hunter Valley Station on the northern shores of Lake Hawea.
The 59-year-old host of The Today Show on the NBC network was granted consent by the Overseas Investment Office to buy the 6468ha leasehold station last month, Mr Lauer was reported to be the station's new owner by 1 News tonight.
The station has been leased by the Crown to the Cochrane family for more than 40 years.
Lessees Taff and Pene Cochrane put the sheep and cattle station up for sale in 2010.
The estimated capital value of the property is $13.2million.
An application to the OIO was made in June last year.
Stretching 35km along the north shore of Lake Hawea into the Hunter Valley and surrounded by mountains and native bush, the station has been described as one of the most picturesque in New Zealand.
