Since moving here in 1986, the owner of this 9.93ha Waiuku estate has lovingly and meticulously transformed the grounds into an impressive garden oasis.
From the grand schist and concrete entrance and security gates, the property unfolds to showcase beautifully landscaped gardens, crisp hedging and topiary, paved pathways, water features and mature trees.
“I reinvented the whole garden,” says the owner.
“I love hedging and structure. The whole place has a really happy atmosphere – people will often say what a lovely feeling it has. I’ve had quite a few garden tours through – fundraising for hospice, the local golf club and for Karioitahi Surf Lifesaving Club.”
Start your property search
The tranquil retreat did not look like this when the family arrived and the planting and growing process has been one of trial and error.
“I’m self-taught and have learned a few lessons along the way. Nature has a great way of saying, ‘hey that’s not right lady!’.”
Her gracious, weatherboard home celebrates the same elegance and structure as the grounds. It was built in the 1920s, with classic original bungalow features enhanced with modern essentials over the years.
“It’s a lovely home. We’ve got everything we could want in here – I love music so I have music going in the speakers all the time.”
High ceilings, exposed beams, rich timber detailing and bay windows are complemented with ducted air conditioning throughout most areas, built-in speakers, LED lighting, solid rimu doors and a security system.
The home has three bedrooms, two bathrooms, garaging, a swimming pool and poolhouse, and landscaped gardens on 9.93 hectares.
The pétanque court and its rows of ornamental pears, the thatch of Japanese maples and unique wedges of hedges in front of the water feature.
High ceilings, exposed beams, rich timber detailing and bay windows are complemented with ducted air conditioning, built-in speakers, LED lighting, solid rimu doors and a security system.
The well-equipped kitchen has been designed for keen cooks and features timber floors, stone benchtops, a 900mm AEG oven, Miele induction cooktop and walk-in pantry. Open-plan living and dining spaces are warmed by the Jotul fireplace, while the formal lounge is separated via glass doors.
These areas flow out to the terraces, lawns and heated saltwater swimming pool complex below. A poolside pavilion out here was designed and built in the same style as the main house and has a bathroom and outdoor shower. This seamless indoor/outdoor connection means that the home has been a dream for entertaining.
“We’ve done 40th, 50th and 60th parties here and had many functions were a bit of fun. I’ve hosted quite a few weddings too – my daughters got married here and so did my grandson in February. It was such a lovely day and a full circle moment.”
Back inside, the master suite has a large walk-in robe and ensuite, while the remaining two bedrooms are serviced by the family bathroom, which boasts a double shower with massage jets.
Working from home is easy, thanks to the study with built-in furniture, and the double garage is carpeted with extra storage. The gardens have been tended from the ground up over the years and are a true labour of love.
“The only things that are original really are the bamboo, puriri tree which is just on 100 years, the pohutukawa and the kauri.”
Highlights include the pétanque court and its rows of ornamental pears, the thatch of Japanese maples and unique wedges of hedges in front of the water feature.
The tranquil retreat did not look like this when the family arrived in 1986, and the planting and growing process has been one of trial and error.
“The only things that are original really are the bamboo, puriri tree which is just on 100 years, the pohutukawa and the kauri,” says the homeowner.
“It’s quite unique, I love the sound of water. I get up in the morning and turn it on, go to bed at night and turn it off.”
There’s also a free-standing shed and an orchard with a variety of fruit trees and citrus, including feijoa, pear, avocado, plum, lemon, lime, orange and mandarin. Despite the privacy and tranquillity at home, the property is well-connected to local conveniences and the region’s beautiful beaches.
“Waiuku is only two-and-a-half kilometres away so it’s very quick to get into town. You’re also on the road out to the coast as well,” says the owner.
Scott McElhinney, from Barfoot & Thompson, is marketing the property and says it’s a special one.
“The character, the setting and the quality of the renovations of the home make it one of a kind,” he says.
“Besides the beautiful gardens and the pool is the amazing land. It’s very flat and useable, it’s perfect for a hobby farm, there’s space for an arena or someone might look at it for business use. They could the land for some sort of horticulture – fruit, market gardening or glasshouses.”
74 Taurangaruru Road in Waiuku, Franklin, is on the market for sale by negotiation with a price guide in the mid-$2 million range.
- Sponsored by Barfoot & Thompson
