Sitting proud on a prominent 1540sqm corner site on one of Remuera’s most popular streets, 298 Victoria Avenue enjoys sensational harbour views that sweep across the boat sheds of Ngapipi Road and far beyond – towards Rangitoto.
The large, sunny, two-storey weatherboard residence was built in the 1950s and when Ximena, Lady Owens, and her late husband, Sir Bob Owens, founder of Owens Transport, came to inspect it – around 40 years ago, it hadn’t changed hands before.
“As soon as we walked in the gate, we knew that this was the right house for us,” says Lady Owens, who had met Sir Bob, a former mayor of Tauranga and Mount Maunganui, in her home country of Chile.
“Both of us absolutely loved it.”
Start your property search
The couple were keen entertainers, and the house was perfect for this purpose with an enormous living room on the sprawling ground floor – as well as a separate dining room for diplomatic dinners and extended family occasions.
Two covered porches, one at each size of the house, add plenty more space for relaxing, all-year round.
The kitchen is large and very functional, with a sunny breakfast nook, which opens out to the expansive decking and patio areas which surround the house, creating a perfect atmosphere for secluded alfresco dining around the kidney-shaped swimming pool in summer.
Also at ground level is a stand-alone guest cottage with bedroom, bathroom and a generous separate laundry, plus a two-car garage with an office and powder room above.
The residence, owned by the late Sir Bob Owens and his wife Ximena, is perfect for diplomatic dinners and extended family occasions. Photo / Supplied
Bayleys agent Gary Wallace says: “It’s a true legacy home with genuine charm and the feedback we’ve heard so far has been incredibly positive.” Photo / Supplied
Upstairs, the master bedroom enjoys its own ensuite and balcony, while two further bedrooms share the family bathroom. One of those bedrooms opens to a larger, screened balcony. Also, on this level is a peaceful family room and the top floor can be reached easily – via stairs or elevator.
Sadly, Sir Bob died in 1999. These days, his grandson – Olympic champion rower Mahe Drysdale – is following in his grandfather’s footsteps, having become mayor of Tauranga in 2024.
Lady Owens continued living in her much-loved home until recently. When she drives past now, on her way to the gym, the busy octogenarian experiences feelings of nostalgia.
“I have lots of lovely memories – especially about some of the well-known people who came and stayed with us. It’s a very special place and I hope the new owners will be very happy,” she says.
Sensational harbour views sweep across the boat sheds of Ngapipi Road and far beyond – towards Rangitoto. Photo / Supplied
Expansive decking and patio areas surround the house and create a perfect atmosphere for secluded alfresco dining around the kidney-shaped swimming pool in summer. Photo / Supplied
Gary Wallace, of Bayleys, Remuera, notes that the double Grammar-zone property has been very well-cared for, and while it’s lovely just as it is, offers significant scope for refurbishment and modernisation.
“It’s a true legacy home with genuine charm and the feedback we’ve heard so far has been incredibly positive,” he says.
“Although it’s on that very prominent corner, it’s still surprisingly private and tucked away. This is an ideal family home, as children can easily walk to school at St Kentigern, Baradene or Victoria Avenue School.”
- 298 Victoria Avenue in Remuera, Auckland, is for sale by set date, closing April 17
