In almost every sense, 42 Owai Avenue is a quintessentially New Zealand beach home. With immediate access to the water, its undemanding character that invites you to relax, and its position, which removes you from the bustle, but not far enough to be isolated.

But what’s even more special about the beachside home is its curious design.

After his wife was inspired by the Dutch barn houses, master builder Ron Maddren built the home in 1978. The intention was to deliver a home that took full advantage of the view and natural light, but also cleverly provided privacy at the same time. The couple’s son, Wayne, was one of four brothers fortunate enough to have spent his childhood at the property.

42 Owai Avenue in Teal Bay, Northland, is on the market for sale by deadline closing July 14. The three-bedroom, one-bathroom home has off-street parking and a 2021 RV of $1.7 million.

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Speaking to the detail and workmanship his father was well-known for, Wayne says the home is a testament to his father’s devotion to quality and the enduring nature of the home.

“Dad owned a substantial timber and home builder business in Auckland. Every material he used was to a high standard - from the redwood exterior to the copper nails that have remained in great shape since he built the home in the 1970s.”

42 Owai Avenue in Teal Bay, Northland

The Dutch-inspired barn was built by a master builder, Ron Maddren, in 1978 for his family. Photo / Supplied

The two-storey home, fronted by masses of glass and relatively closed sides, intentionally limits the view to just what is in front and back, which is endless blue sea interrupted only by an island or two, and native bush to the rear.

The living space is found on the second level, which is one continuous kitchen, living and dining area. From here, thanks to the room’s elevation, it feels as if you’re already on the water.

Ranch sliders open to a generous deck fronted by glass balustrades to ensure not one inch of the remarkable sea view is lost. The entirely glass façade of the home successfully produced the light-filled but private home that Wayne’s parents had intended.

Downstairs you’ll find three bedrooms, two with an open and direct path to the sand.

42 Owai Avenue in Teal Bay, Northland

The two-storey home, fronted by masses of glass and relatively closed sides, intentionally limits the view to just what is in front and back. Photo / Supplied

42 Owai Avenue in Teal Bay, Northland

The open-plan living, dining and kitchen is on the second level while downstairs are three bedrooms, two with an open and direct path to the sand. Photo / Supplied

“The beach hasn’t changed since I was a kid. Teal Bay hasn’t suffered from erosion like so many other beaches. It looks the same today as it did when mum and dad bought the section,” says Wayne.

Which would partly explain why the beachfront houses on Teal Bay are rarely listed on the market, it is a seemingly untouched part of Northland, populated by homes that have been enjoyed by generations.

Listing agent Jane Hibbert-Foy, of Maximise Realty, says: “I’ve been going to Teal Bay since my twenties and it has always had the most incredible community. You don’t get the day-trippers, so it feels undiscovered and I would say it’s one of Northland’s top beaches. The fishing and swimming are fantastic, and you’re only 40 minutes from Whangarei, it’s a very special place.”

- Sponsored by Maximise Realty