While rough diamonds still show up occasionally in Auckland’s older suburbs, the two character bay villas at 27 and 28 Queens Parade in Devonport are in a class of their very own – with incredibly long, rich histories.
Almost completely untouched, No 28 has been owned and loved by the same family since the 1880s and three generations have lived there.
“Much of it is pretty original, but Mum and Dad just loved it exactly as it was – and is,” says a family member.
“They knew when high tide was and they would put on their bathing suits and flip flops to walk across the road for a swim. Dad also loved to sit on the porch and watch the comings and goings from the Devonport Naval Base at the end of the street.”
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This treasured family dwelling sits on a generous 1088sqm site and the backyard has a very organic “Good Life” kind of vibe. Family members recall chickens running around, and always an abundance of fruit and vegetables.
The interior was completely modernised in the 1920s and a porch was turned into a sunroom. Period features such as lead lights, picture rails and fireplaces have been lovingly retained ever since.
While the kitchen was probably a cook’s dream of its time, it is ripe for a makeover now, as is the bathroom. Outside, a rustic workshop was used to craft furniture with loads of space for equipment and storage.
In 1990, the family purchased No 27 next door on 1123sqm as an investment – with university students as tenants over the next 30-odd years.
The vendors bought No 27 next door on 1123sqm as an investment – with university students as tenants over the next 30-odd years. Photo / Supplied
27 and 28 Queens Parade can be bought either together or individually. Photo / Supplied
Not surprisingly, visitors to recent open homes have recalled going to great parties there. An imaginative buyer would undoubtedly make major changes with so much scope on offer.
Upstairs rooms were added to both homes at different times in their lives and enjoy the most perfect harbour views.
Marissa Muirhead grew up a few doors away and was an obvious choice to market the two properties.
“It’s a real honour to be representing this piece of Devonport history. There is a heritage overlay so the existing houses could potentially be renovated, and minor dwellings built at the rear,” she says.
No 28 has been owned and loved by the same family since the 1880s and three generations have lived there. Photo / Supplied
Period features in No 28 such as lead lights, picture rails and fireplaces have been lovingly retained. Photo / Supplied
Alternatively, she says that landscaping, and perhaps swimming pools, could help turn these into perfect properties for young families, just a few short steps from the vibrant village and the ferry terminal.
“There are just so many possibilities to explore – regardless of whether one buyer snaps up both – or if they go to two new owners.”
Family members say that the decision to sell the long-held properties was a bittersweet one. “But we are all well established in homes elsewhere, so it seems the right thing to do.”
They say their shared memories will remain forever, whatever happens to No 27 and 28 themselves. “It’s the end of a wonderful era for us.”
- 27 and 28 Queens Parade in Devonport, North Shore, Auckland, are for sale, tender closing December 4
