‘Stay away or fall in love’ in Titirangi

Titirangi has long been a favourite suburb for Aucklanders looking to escape the grind of the city but still be close enough to its conveniences.

“We have always loved Titirangi,” says Matthew who, along with his wife, three kids, cat, and fish, moved into the area five years ago.

“We’d previously lived on Blockhouse Bay Road where we had four neighbours, so moving to Titirangi where we have no neighbours at all let us create a bit of an oasis that we love coming home to every day.”

At first glance, 63 Paturoa Road in Titirangi, Auckland feels like it’s a treehouse, perched above native bush and enjoying stunning sea views out towards the Manukau Harbour.

“A lot of properties in Titirangi are down in the valley or under treetops,” says Matthew.

“We love that we’re so elevated. We get a lot of sun, and our view goes over the trees and out to the water which is really nice to come home to after a long day at the office.”

In the five years the family has called 63 Paturoa Road home, they’ve done a lot of work to make it their own.

Two years ago, they “went full noise on the kitchen”, completely ripping it out, installing underfloor heating and slate tiling, and designing a space that was both high-end and functional.

“It was an absolute nightmare being without a kitchen for a few months and trying to service three kids under seven out of the laundry sink!”

Recently Matthew put in a separate driveway entrance at the bottom of the property, where he stores the boat.

A year ago, he also put in a retaining wall to create a large, flat lawn.

“Having a lawn in Titirangi, especially one this size, is really unique. In summer it gets full sun which has been just magic for the kids who love to play out there on their bikes.”

Inside, multiple living areas with high ceilings, huge windows, and a large deck give every member of the family their own space.

Upstairs, the master bedroom takes up the entire third floor, providing Matthew and his wife an escape away from the rest of the house.

One of Matthew’s favourite spots is the lounge.

“When you’re sitting in front of the fire and TV you can look straight out to the sea and bush views. I’m right into my music too and have a big collection of records and a decent sound system, so I’ve got a corner where I can sit and have a drink and listen to music.”

Ray White agent Craig Smith, who is marketing the property, says 63 Paturoa Road, which goes to auction on May 1, is one of the most unique properties on the market at the moment.

“It’s got a really nice balance of sea views and amazing landscaping which makes you feel like you’re always in the bush wherever you happen to be in the house,” he says.

“I think this property should carry a health warning: ‘Stay away or fall in love’.”

For Matthew and his family, it’s time to move on ... but with a heavy heart.

“We’re truly gutted to be leaving the area, to be honest. But we know whoever moves in will love this place as much as we have.”