When Chelsea and Robbie Compston moved into their new townhouse at Stonefields earlier this year, they joined one of Auckland’s most spirited communities.
Now raising daughters Maggie, two, and five-month-old Harriet – along with their spoodle, Noodle – the Compstons have found their stride in the Fletcher Living neighbourhood. Tucked between Mt Wellington and St Johns, it gives them the best of both worlds: city convenience for Robbie’s property work and space for Chelsea as she presses pause on her law career to spend time with the girls.
“We were drawn to the location,” says Chelsea. “There are so many parks and playgrounds, we’re right by Colin Maiden Park, Tamaki Drive is close, and my husband can catch the train easily into the city. It’s got that family feel but it’s also so accessible.”
It’s also near the popular Lunn Avenue shopping area, which includes a Warehouse, New World and plenty of places to eat.
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Once an industrial basalt quarry, Stonefields has become one of Auckland’s most successful master-planned neighbourhoods, known for its green spaces, walkability and strong sense of belonging.
“Stonefields was one of the first developments in Auckland to introduce terraced housing on this kind of scale,” says Jeremy Crisp, Fletcher Living’s Regional Manager for Auckland Central/North. “That density was new at the time, but it created a really successful mix of homes and people, from first-home buyers to families and empty nesters, all in one connected neighbourhood.”
Fletcher Living has been building in Stonefields for more than a decade, helping shape it into one of Auckland’s most desirable and connected neighbourhoods. Today, more than 2600 homes make up the community. There are parks, cafés, a school and daycare, and plenty of safe walkways that link everything together.
“The beauty of a master-planned community is that we can weave all of that into the design,” Crisp says. “Each park has its own character, some with art installations, others for relaxing or for play, and they’re all connected by green lanes and walkways.”
Fletcher Living’s newest stages, including the Stonefields Avenue and Korere Terrace precincts, offer easy-care walk-up apartments, three-bedroom terraces, and larger four- and five-bedroom standalones.
“We’ve got homes starting from around $859,000 up to just over $2 million,” says Crisp. “There’s a good mix of options, whether you’re after a lock-up-and-leave lifestyle or more space for a growing family. Our terraces range from about 95 to 180 square metres, so they feel generous inside.”
When they were looking to buy, Chelsea and Robbie were looking to be closer to the city and to family life. “We loved our old home, but the commute was too long,” says Chelsea. “Robbie was missing family time, and Stonefields gave us the same quality and warmth but with everything on our doorstep.”
The couple say the build quality stood out immediately. “It’s warm, dry and really well finished,” says Chelsea. “Even when we had a small issue with the front door, the team had it sorted within days.”
That kind of after-care is something Fletcher Living has always strived to achieve.
“We’re a customer-driven business,” Crisp says. “People come back to us again and again. Some have bought seven homes with Fletcher Living because they know if there’s ever an issue, we’ll sort it. We’ve got a dedicated care team who handle everything quickly, and even if it’s beyond our remit, we’ll help homeowners find the right solution.”
Stonefields has also built a reputation for its community spirit, especially at Halloween. Each year, hundreds of families take to the streets for a night of costumes and candy, turning the suburb into Auckland’s unofficial trick-or-treat capital.
This year, Fletcher Living is joining in by decorating a pedestrian lane in its new Stonefields Avenue neighbourhood off Morrin Road for the Stonefields Spooktacular. The free, family-friendly event runs on Friday 31st October and Saturday 1st November, with themed displays, treats and plenty of chances for visitors to explore the area.
“Stonefields has a real buzz about it at Halloween,” says Crisp. “We thought it was the perfect opportunity to get involved, have a bit of fun with the community, and give families a look at what makes this neighbourhood so special.”
Chelsea says Maggie can’t wait. “She’s at the perfect age for it. It’ll be her first proper trick-or-treat. It feels really safe here; the kids play on the driveway, neighbours all say hello. It’s just a lovely place to live.”
If you’re curious to experience the community for yourself, the Spooktacular Event is the perfect time to visit. See fletcherliving.co.nz/spooktacular for details.
Come along, join the fun and see why so many families love calling this neighbourhood home.
More information: Stonefields new houses for sale.
