When Kevin and Lisa were searching for a home that would suit their growing family, it made sense to start with a tried-and-true family home.
“The previous owners had raised their family here and we could tell it was filled with fond memories,” recalls Kevin. “It was nice to know that once the home had finished working for their family, ours could take it over.”
Five bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living spaces, a large flat backyard, established garden and trees, a massive garage with plenty of room for everyone’s toys ... 12 Tainui Terrace in Māngere Bridge, Auckland City has everything a growing family could ask for.
“Our favourite thing about this home is that it’s so green and private yet so light,” says Kevin.
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“We can open the French doors off the lounge, kitchen and family room onto the deck and let so much light inside, without compromising on privacy.
“Plus, there’s so much room for everyone. Upstairs is a big master where we can relax, when Lisa’s parents are staying they have their own space, the kids can hang out in the family room, and then we all come together at the end of the day.”
The couple has updated the home over the years.
“The previous owners did extensive alterations including extending the back of the house and adding the second storey, so our work has really been to complement the work they already did. We went with a tasteful neutral palate which makes it easy to update the home with things like cushions, throws and artwork, without having to repaint.”
“We can open the French doors off the lounge, kitchen and family room onto the deck and let so much light inside, without compromising on privacy,” says one of the homeowners. Photo / Supplied.
The home has five bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living spaces, a large flat backyard, established garden and trees, and a massive garage with plenty of room for everyone’s toys. Photo / Supplied.
Mangere Bridge is a vibrant, family-friendly locale where everyone knows everyone.
“If I nip down to the shops, chances are I either run into people I know or see people I recognise. That’s one thing I noticed when we moved here, compared with where I grew up in the city. It’s a very close-knit, friendly, safe community.”
The wider area is very family-friendly too.
“We often walk up Māngere mountain as a family – the 360-degree views at the top are worth the climb. Ambury Park is just a few minutes away, and being close to the water is nice too. Just this morning I was walking along the waterfront just as night was becoming day. It’s a lovely place to be at that time of the morning.”
While the kids don’t have pets right now, the home has seen its fair share of animals.
“During Covid we had hens and we looked after some orphaned lambs which was lovely – the neighbours loved them too. Because the section is fully fenced and there’s lots of space, it’s pretty neat for animals.”
Listing agent Shaan Joshi, of Ray White, says more than 30 groups visited on the first weekend of open homes and a high number of private inspections have been booked. Photo / Supplied.
The vendors have updated the home over more than the 10 years of ownership. Photo / Supplied.
Ray White agent Shaan Joshi says some nice properties come to market in this area, but not many of this calibre.
“Buyers seem to think so too,” he says. “In our first weekend of open homes, more than 30 groups came through this property, plus we’ve got a high number of private inspections booked.
“Mangere Bridge isn’t a thoroughfare suburb; it’s more of a destination. Those who know the area love it, and those who don’t need to come and take a look.”
For Kevin and Lisa, it’s time to bid farewell to their family home of more than a decade. “We’ve loved our time here, both in this home and in the area. We hope the next family will create the kinds of happy memories we and the previous owners made here.”
12 Tainui Terrace in Māngere Bridge, Manukau, Auckland, is on the market for sale by auction on March 29.
- Sponsored by Ray White
