It was built in 1920 – embracing the classic style of the day, and when 13 Maungakiekie Avenue was advertised for sale, nine years later, the agent especially noted its “large entrance hall and wide stairway panelled in select Oregon”.
That 1929 listing described the property as being “magnificently papered throughout, with electric hot water service and stove”. It also mentioned the “motor garage”, which was a newly desirable feature of its era.
Fast forward almost 100 years, and this lovely home, with private access to picturesque Cornwall Park, is once again on the market, having been owned by current vendors Ranald and Cyndy McDonald since 1993.
While many of those 1920s features are still in place – including fantastic period light fittings in the lounge and formal dining room – the house itself has been significantly updated over the years, with the addition of a large modern family room and contemporary kitchen at the rear, designed by celebrated architect Terry Hitchcock.
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This major project involved moving the entire structure forward by 4.5 metres – not long before Ranald and Cyndy’s arrival with their two young sons.
The original “motor garage” was relocated to its current position behind the pool and adjacent to the full-sized, floodlit, Astro-turf tennis court at the same time, and is now a beautifully appointed self-contained cottage.
While it’s perfect for housing teenagers or elderly relatives, the couple has rented it out regularly as holiday accommodation – emphasising the convenient location, just moments from the motorway, with easy access to Central Auckland.
“We’ve met lovely people from all over the world and many have become good friends – returning regularly. Ranald and I love inviting them into the house for a drink and a catch-up,” says Cyndy.
The home has private access to Cornwall Park which abuts the property.
The house has been significantly updated over the years, with the addition of a large modern family room and contemporary kitchen at the rear designed by celebrated architect Terry Hitchcock.
The home itself was the perfect environment for the pair and their sons.
There are four big bedrooms – one with ensuite – plus a family bathroom and a gorgeous library-cum-living room upstairs, and Cyndy says that the flow throughout was perfect, with plenty of space for the boys to do their own thing.
“We had an open-door policy, and their friends were here all the time, playing cricket on the tennis court, shooting hoops, or swimming. The only rule was BYO towel, and parents knew that their children were happy and safe with us.”
Cyndy’s always been a party person.
The main residence has five bedrooms and three bathrooms, with an Astro-turf tennis court and swimming pool on 1356sqm.
The balcony upstairs looks out to the tennis court and beyond to Cornwall Park.
“I remember one occasion in particular – with a 1960s theme, and we even had a convertible red Mercedes, a vintage Mustang and a classic Porsche parked outside.”
Dean Tuffley, of Ray White, Mount Eden, says this is an architectural masterpiece in a desirable neighbourhood.
“I’m thrilled and honoured to be bringing it to market with its park access, freehold tenure, and potential to add further value. Properties like this one are rarely available, so I urge buyers to act now.”
Cyndy and Ranald are looking forward to downsizing, while hoping that another family will be as happy as they were – watching seasonal changes at a remarkable inner-city park that is effectively an extension of their own backyard.
13 Maungakiekie Avenue in Greenlane, Auckland, is on the market sale by deadline closing March 5.
- Sponsored by Ray White
