Our Story

Pioneers in Co-Ownership and boutique lifestyle opportunities

The owners and driving force behind Second Home are, John and Sharon Russell. They have both been at the forefront of the Co-Ownership industry since 1999, specialising in creating boutique lifestyle opportunities for their clients in Australia, New Zealand and Italy. With their extensive knowledge, John and Sharon will ensure that you receive the best possible experience when it comes to a very important aspect of your life: your family holidays.

How it started

In 1999, they founded Boatshare Australia, a company that provided clients with the opportunity to own a luxury boat at a fraction of the cost of full ownership. As pioneers of the commercial boat sharing concept, they developed the business into Australia's most successful boat syndication service.

Following the success of Boatshare, they partnered with Australia’s premium luxury motor yacht builder establishing Riviera Syndication that provided luxury Riviera yachts and a comprehensive support service to clients in Australia and New Zealand.

In 2013 they purchased a share in a villa in a small town in central Italy. Here they share a villa that provides 13 families the perfect base from which to enjoy and explore the real Italy.

How we have evolved

John and Sharon completed their own Co-Ownership holiday home in Queenstown in 2023, which was featured on the Grand Designs NZ television program for its sustainable Co-Ownership model.

In an era of sustainable living and responsible resource utilisation, sharing a holiday home with family and friends is an enjoyable and eco-friendly way to own and use a holiday home while reducing our carbon footprint.

The very successful and enjoyable experience with owners and their families in Italy and New Zealand, combined with their extensive knowledge of luxury motor yacht syndication has all contributed to shape the structure of Second Home.

Now John and Sharon are proud to offer families the same wonderful experience with holiday homes in and around Queenstown, New Zealand, on the Gold Coast in Australia and in Italy.