“We don’t need to go on holiday because we’ve got our own resort here,” says one of the owners of this luxurious 6139sqm Albany estate.

“We’ve got a floodlit tennis court, a heated pool and a sea view – we don’t need to go to an island to get that. And we’re only five minutes from Albany,” she says.

The family of four were initially attracted to the size of the elevated, north-facing property, as well as the inspired architectural design of the 480sqm residence.

It was a seriously high-spec build, crafted in 1986 with high-quality, enduring materials. Over time, they have transformed it into a stylish family sanctuary, sparing no expense to reimagine the original design and enhance it with a suite of top-of-the-line, modern must-haves.

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The home was built to maximise natural light and sun as well as showcase the panoramic views, which extend out over the valley to Rangitoto and the Hauraki Gulf. It is crafted from solid brick – which has been rendered for a more sophisticated look – with a shingle roof and copper pipes.

High ceilings and generous spaces inside enjoy a real sense of connection from one another, with walls of glass around the perimeter bringing the outside in.

“There’s lots of space for everyone to spread out and relax and it’s great for entertaining, we’ve had some quite big functions here.”

Two key living areas envelop the large kitchen that overlooks the pool, both offering seamless flow to the garden.

The more formal lounge features built-in cabinetry crafted from honey-hued timber, while the casual living area captures breathtaking sea views by day and transforms into your very own Gold Class cinema at night, complete with a drop-down screen, built-in projector, and in-ceiling speakers – a true luxury escape at home.

221 Gills Road in Albany Heights, North Shore, Auckland

The main residence and minor dwelling, which currently has a long-term tenant, sit on a 6139sqm section with a tennis court and swimming pool.

221 Gills Road in Albany Heights, North Shore, Auckland

Landscaped gardens are mature and fully fenced, incorporating sweeping platforms of lawns, tropical plantings, an automated waterfall, and curved Schist walls meandering throughout.

“It’s such a warm house – it’s super comfortable and is so well designed. All the bedrooms are east-facing so they get the morning sun, but they don’t cook in the afternoon, so you can sleep.”

The four bedrooms are all located in their own wing and enjoy access to the extensive kwila decking that wraps around the outside, as well as views. The master has a large bespoke dressing room and luxe ensuite, while the kids’ rooms each have deep open lofts and are serviced by the family bathroom.

The separate laundry boasts Miele appliances and custom storage solutions, while the carpeted internal garage is currently doubling as a home gym, thanks to the off-street parking for up to 10 more vehicles outside. A mezzanine study/lounge upstairs has its own deck and is the perfect spot to work from home.

The home automation system they have installed is next level and is all voice and phone-controlled. It includes Lutron Lighting, indoor and outdoor speakers with eight zones of music and electric blinds.

Landscaped gardens are mature and fully fenced, incorporating sweeping platforms of lawns, tropical plantings, an automated waterfall, and curved Schist walls meandering throughout.

“We love hanging out by the pool – it gets all-day sun, and no one is looking in on us, it’s totally private.”

This complex includes an inground saltwater pool and built-in spa pool, a purpose-built cabana, a bathroom, and outdoor shower. Just a few short steps from the house, the full-sized tennis court has built-in spectator seating.

221 Gills Road in Albany Heights, North Shore, Auckland

Just a few short steps from the house is the full-sized tennis court with built-in spectator seating.

221 Gills Road in Albany Heights, North Shore, Auckland

The four bedrooms in the main residence are all located in their own wing and enjoy access to the extensive kwila decking that wraps around the outside, as well as views.

“For anyone who plays tennis, it’s the real deal. The fact that it’s floodlit also means you can play at night when it’s a bit cooler. The kids love having their friends over – they have a hit, a swim in the pool then sit around cook their own food on the woodfire barbecue in the front courtyard.”

Another huge bonus of the fully-fenced, freehold property is the separate minor dwelling. The three-bedroom home has its own parking and a long-term tenant – a fantastic way to supplement the mortgage.

The family have loved every aspect of this special property, including its surprising proximity to Albany, excellent local schools and public transport.

“It’s such a unique offering – usually for something like this you need to be further out, so everything is a drive. This really is the best of both worlds.”

Jo Glancy, from Harcourts, is marketing the property and says, “This is a truly exceptional family residence that literally offers you everything.”

221 Gills Road in Albany Heights, North Shore, Auckland, is for sale by way of auction on February 20. The seven-bedroom, three-bathroom property has a 2021 RV of $3.75 million.

Sponsored by Harcourts