- May Harvey's iconic art deco home, Clear Waters, in Russell is for sale.
- Harvey meticulously planned the house in the 1950s, creating a landmark known for its charm and hospitality.
- Proceeds from the sale will go to philanthropic causes, continuing Harvey's legacy of generosity.
When the late May Harvey spotted her dream home in a magazine, she decided to adapt the design to fit the five-acre section she had bought in Russell in the Far North.
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That was back in the 1950s, and today the iconic art deco-style home, dubbed Clear Waters, nestled at the eastern end of the white sands of Long Beach – about a 20-minute walk from the wharf and shops - is for sale.
Harvey died in 2006, aged almost 99. Her niece and trustee, Mary Lou Herdson, told OneRoof that Harvey had meticulously planned the house, inside and out, but getting it built was a challenge.
Proceeds from the sale of the over 2ha property being sold by the estate of May Harvey will go to charity. Photo / Supplied
The house, known as Clear Waters, backs onto QEII-protected native bush and fronts the white sands of Long Beach. Photo / Supplied
Russell, in the 1950s, was far more isolated than it is today, and although the build was “long and fraught”, the project brought Harvey closer to the community around her.
“The house is more than an architectural landmark; it’s the lasting expression of a woman whose independence, hospitality and affection for Russell left a deep impression on those who knew her,” Herdson said.
Harvey was well-known in both Auckland and Russell for her warmth, generosity and lively social circle. “During the Second World War, she spent significant time as a masseuse/physiotherapist for New Zealand troops in Egypt, experiences that helped shape the broad outlook and adventurous spirit she later brought to life at Clear Waters.
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Harvey’s affection for Russell began after a visit to her aunt, Bexie Wise, who was then living on Russell Heights Road, which looks out over the beach.
When finished, her Clear Waters home quickly became a distinctive feature of the Long Beach landscape, Herdson said.
“With its curved frontage, stucco finish, flat roof and pillared terrace, it was very much of its time, yet its form sat sympathetically within the natural landscape around it.
“The house has charm, character and a calm sense of permanence. The words above the front door say, 'pax et bonum' — peace and goodwill.”
The striking property still has its original features, including a stone fireplace and vintage kitchen. Photo / Supplied
Herdson said Clear Waters was never just a house for her aunt: “It was a place to be shared. Friends, family, locals, and, on occasion, even strangers who admired the property were welcomed there.
“Over the years, five generations of family have enjoyed holidays in the house, giving Clear Waters a continuity that extends well beyond its architecture.”
Life revolved around the sea, and in the early days, there was a dinghy with an unreliable Seagull outboard motor, later supplemented by a Logan-built 16-foot clinker runabout with a Morris inboard motor.
“Boating gave younger nieces and nephews a sense of freedom around the Bay of Islands, sometimes more freedom than intended,” Herdson said.
The house, which has two bedrooms and a separate cabin, was a social gathering place. “May Harvey held New Year’s parties that were popular local events, with music, singing and a wide circle of Russell friends.
“Clear Waters provided a setting where family memories were made, friendships were strengthened and visitors could experience the particular beauty of Long Beach, Russell.”
Herdson said the time has come to sell, and, in accordance with her aunt’s wishes, the proceeds of the sale will be directed towards philanthropic causes, “allowing her generosity to continue in another form”.
Bayleys listing agent Irene Bremner said the house was part of Russell’s history and one she never thought would come up for sale.
It had a charming feel and was in a lovely spot at the end of the beach, she said. “Walk out the door, across the road and go to the beach.”
While there was room for a new owner to make improvements, Bremner said she would not change a thing. “If you look at the kitchen and the shape of it, it's just unbelievable. I loved it, and I loved it more going inside.”
- 151 Long Beach Road, Russell, Far North, is for sale, tender closing August 15
