It’s a long way from Kaka Point, at the bottom of the south island, to Ngunguru, near the top of the north – 1708 kilometres, in fact.
But the two coastal holiday spots are inextricably linked for Mark Nelson. Originally from Balclutha, Nelson enjoyed plenty of good times at Kaka Point, and his current holiday retreat at 2050 Ngunguru Road along the Tutukaka Coast in Ngunguru, Whangārei has many of the same qualities.
“Ngunguru is still reasonably undiscovered, although less so now than when we bought this place,” he says.
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The property has three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a single carpark. Photo / Supplied
“And this property is very private. It’s the only house right on this piece of the waterfront.”
It was love at first sight when Nelson first saw the bach in 2006 but he did ask the then owners if he could spend a couple of nights there before signing the deal. It only took one.
The original building, known as Honeymoon Cottage, dates right back to early last century, but in the 1940s the tiny cottage was replaced by a bach.
Many changes took place over the years, and by the time Nelson became the owner it had a definite ‘70s vibe.
The bach was originally a tiny cottage, dating back to early last century and known as Honeymoon Cottage. Photo / Supplied
These days the property is named Te Wahapu (The Estuary). It’s a sturdy, two-level weatherboard house with three bedrooms and two bathrooms, sitting about as close to the water as you can get.
There’s a bespoke stone wall right on the edge, intersected by a set of steps going straight down into the water.
Further along is a boatshed. A generous amount of decking spans two sides of the living area and provides unbeatable outdoor living space.
Inside, it’s a delightful mix of modern and retro. The big, open kitchen combines modern benchtops, a generous island, and contemporary stainless steel appliances, with a few touches of vibrant orange retaining the link to the ‘70s.
There is a generous amount of decking which provides unbeatable outdoor living space. Photo / Supplied
The living room, which opens via big sliding doors to a covered pergola over the deck, has the original timber floors.
This is only the property’s second time on the market in 50 years, says Bayleys agent Penny Kempton, who sees the bach as a long time hold for generations of a family.
“To see how truly special this setting is, you need to come here, breathe the sea air and soak up the vibe.”
The little town has a population of about 1200 and has a general store, cafes, a nine hole golf course, tennis courts and bowling greens.
Te Wahapu, as the bach is known, has a boatshed and is on the market for only the second time in 50 years. Photo / Supplied
For anyone who ever wants to leave, Whangarei is 26km away. Closer are Matapouri Bay and Tutukaka. All along this coast are rocky shores, white sand beaches, coastal bush walks, and the iconic Poor Knights Marine Reserve.
Nelson knows he’s going to regret parting with Te Wahapu and admits he has agonised over the decision.
“But it’s time to change things around and have some adventures in other places. We had an amazing Christmas here and we will always be able to look back on the good times.”
2050 Ngunguru Road in Ngunguru, Whangarei will be sold at auction on March 9.
