- A log cabin on 2.62ha of native bush in Kamo is up for auction.
- David and Linda Muir, who bought it for $285,000, have enhanced the property over 23 years.
- The Muirs are selling to return to the Manawatū, with the auction set for next week.
A log cabin nestled in more than 2ha of covenanted native bush on the edge of Kamo has hit the market for sale.
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The three-bedroom retreat, which heads to auction next week with an RV of just under $1 million, is the home of gardener David Muir and his wife, Linda.
David and Linda moved to the area 23 years ago after David took on the role of project manager at Whangārei Quarry Gardens, which is now a magnet for out-of-town visitors.
The three-bedroom, two-bathroom cabin on Waitaua Road was built in 1975. Photo / Supplied
The log cabin has been upgraded over the years including a new kitchen in 2022. Photo / Supplied
The couple stumbled across the cabin at 10 Waitaua Road and pounced, paying $285,000 for the property.
“The house is surrounded by mature totara trees, and is set on the edge of a bush-filled gully. It, shall we say, spoke to us,” David told OneRoof.
The previous owner was a landscaper, but Muir has also put his own touches to the 2.62ha property. He left his job at Whangārei Quarry Gardens in 2014, but continued his passion in his own backyard.
“Gardeners never retire,” he joked.
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“There’s been some considerable changes in both the layout of the garden and the plants in it. But that’s to be expected over almost a quarter of a century. Like all good gardens, it reflects the gardener.”
Some rare and unusual collector plants have been added to the impressive garden, and the covenanted bush has been cleared of invasive plants and unwanted material.
“We’ve taken out everything from gorse and old fencing wire to car tyres. Now the kererū come in to drink, tūis feed right on the deck, and moreporks call from the trees at night,” David said.
The unique home is surrounded by 2.62ha of native bush. Photo / Supplied
Ray White listing agent Sally Jordan says it’s one of the most unique homes she’s ever marketed. Photo / Supplied
“It’s very private, very sheltered – it’s a nice place to be in. It felt like living in the country, yet we were still close to the city. My wife was even able to have her horses here. It’s the perfect mix.”
The property has a distinctive log cabin feel with small logs bolted to both sides of the walls and a large stone mantelpiece surrounding the fireplace.
The kitchen and ensuite bathroom were thoughtfully upgraded in 2022 in keeping with the log cabin’s original character. The home has also been re-roofed, reclad, and double-glazing installed.
Miles Bundle, who was the original owner and built the log cabin in 1975, attended one of the recent open homes and congratulated the Muirs on their stewardship of the house.
“It was a bit of a nostalgic trip for him,” David said. “There are obvious changes from when he built it back in the 1970s, but nevertheless, the spirit of the house and the ambience are still there after 50 years.”
The Muirs are selling to return home to the Manawatū and be closer to family, but know that finding another property like the log cabin could be a struggle.
Ray White listing agent Sally Jordan said the property was a standout in her patch. “It’s incredibly rare to find a lifestyle property that offers such immersion in nature while being so close to town.
“The Muirs have created something truly special here; a home that feels calm, alive, and deeply connected to its environment.”
Despite its bush setting, the property is less than 10 minutes from Kamo’s school and shops and they had enjoyed living in the friendly community.
- 10 Waitaua Road, in Kauri, Whangārei, goes to auction on November 6
