Paul, the owner of this sensational Waiheke Island property, isn’t sure if he was necessarily showing remarkable foresight when he purchased the 4.4458ha block of land around 1971.
“I think it might be more that we were young, and we just loved it,” he says.
Having a wide coastal frontage with a sheltered, secluded bay just some steps down the cliff path, was a big part of the attraction. This classic seaside spot enjoys sparkling waters, soft sand, and rock pools.
The rolling pastures of the farmlet itself were another major drawcard and in recent years, Paul – who was the island’s first resident vet – has farmed alpacas there, with his wife Chris.
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He says that in the early days, island life was a lot simpler than today. “There were far fewer people and no tourists, so yes, we’ve certainly seen some changes.”
He recalls travelling to Auckland by seaplane, from Surfdale to Mechanics Bay, in just nine minutes. “But those planes were old, and the service was canned once the fast ferries arrived.”
At the end of a city visit, they were always pleased to return to their lovely sprawling classic kauri Californian bungalow, which had been shipped over from its previous site in South Auckland by former owners during the 1960s.
“It’s a very sunny, comfortable house,” they say.
The kauri Californian bungalow, which was shipped over from its previous site in South Auckland, now has four bedrooms, four bathrooms and multiple living zones spread out over 295sqm. Photo / Supplied
The rolling pastures of the 4.45ha farmlet were a major drawcard when Paul – who was the island’s first resident vet – and his wife Chris bought it in 1971. Photo / Supplied
Retaining many of its original character features in the form of polished timber floors, window seats and original interior doors, the homestead has had a number of extensions over the years – including installation of a farmhouse-style kitchen, to accommodate the changing needs of children, and more recently, four grandchildren.
As well as three bedrooms in the main house, a visitors’ wing includes another bedroom, sitting room and bathroom. The home enjoys double glazing and a cosy central fireplace as well as extensive decking that enables inhabitants to enjoy panoramic views out to sea, or across the gently undulating countryside.
Paul and Chris have decided that it’s time to put their days of farming behind them and enjoy a relaxed retirement with less responsibility.
“It’s been a difficult decision, and we’ll take away many wonderful memories. Especially those with the children and their rites of passage – like jumping ‘the chasm’, which is a particular channel on the beach, by themselves, launching kayaks, or fishing out on the Gulf,” Paul says.
“It’s been very much a family place.”
The home enjoys panoramic views out to sea, or across the gently undulating countryside. Photo / Supplied
NZ Sotheby’s agent Pene Milne says: “The turquoise, azure waters of this bay are more tropical than most. It is sheltered when other bays are not and feels a world away.” Photo / Supplied
Pene Milne, of New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty, describes this as a precious slice of island land, with its own rich history.
“The turquoise, azure waters of this bay are more tropical than most. It is sheltered when other bays are not and feels a world away.”
Being realistic, she says that future owners may want to build new with this landscape.
“What simply can’t be overemphasised is the fabulous location; the fact that it’s so close to Oneroa Beach, the ferry and the shops, yet you are in a tranquil private hideaway. It’s a very honest property – what you see is what you get, and it’s truly special.”
54 Korora Road in Oneroa, Waiheke Island, Auckland, is on the market for sale by tender, closing November 12.
- Sponsored by NZ Sotheby’s International Realty
