Don and Nola Blainey awaken each day to the rising sun over the islands and gobsmacking 270-degree sea views. Their tranquil home in Doves Bay, Kerikeri, offers an idyllic escape from the everyday, including a recent surprise visitor – a kiwi snoozing on their doormat.
Eight years ago, retired Australian lawyer Don and former restaurateur Nola fell in love with this serene property and its neighbouring section.
Don remarks: “Every visitor is blown away by the views, and all you hear is ‘Oh my God, how do you ever get any work done?’.”
Their affinity for Kerikeri began 15 years ago while sailing around the South Pacific, leading them to return and eventually settle here. After selling their renovated beachside home in Melbourne, they found their perfect haven in this house, drawn to its light and airy atmosphere, and the privacy it affords.
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The panoramic views encompass the Doves Bay Marina, the 144 islands of Bay of Islands to the east, Te Puna Inlet to the north, and Kerikeri Inlet with its array of moored boats to the south.
The Blaineys own two titles totalling 2150sqm, sold together to preserve the stunning vistas. They are now selling their home at 27-29 Doves Bay Road in Kerikeri, Far North, by way of auction on June 11.
Their property, with its beautifully landscaped adjoining section, is bordered by bushland frequented by kiwi. Nola recounts a recent morning dog walk when she discovered a large kiwi asleep on their doormat, carefully tiptoeing around the kiwi they all walked down the driveway together.
Homeowner Don Blainey: “Every visitor is blown away by the views, and all you hear is ‘Oh my God, how do you ever get any work done?’.”
The property for sale includes two titles, totalling 2150sqm, to preserve the stunning vistas.
The home’s upper level is designed for entertaining, with multiple covered decks offering breathtaking views. The open-plan living, dining and kitchen area with a scullery and family area with wood burner provides a cosy alternative.
Don shares: “There’s always some action – local yachts racing, an old man skulling out to his historic schooner, a novice boat owner battling berthing a boat in a strong wind, cruise liners heading to Paihia and migrating birds circling ready to fly north.”
The upper level also features an ensuited master suite with a walk-in wardrobe, all rooms sharing the same stunning views.
The lower level is perfect for guests or multi-generational living, comprising a lounge with a kitchenette, two bedrooms, an office (or third bedroom), a family bathroom, and a versatile room currently used as a music room. All enjoying water views.
The open-plan living, dining and kitchen area has a scullery and the family area a wood burner.
Rooms in the Doves Bay Road property enjoy water views.
Outside, the property includes professionally landscaped gardens designed for minimal upkeep, a saltwater swimming pool and additional BBQ deck and an internal-access double garage.
Boat enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to Kerikeri Cruising Club, less than two kilometres away.
Situated 14 kilometres from Kerikeri town centre, the property offers easy access to excellent facilities and the convenience of sailing to nearby restaurants in Russell or Paihia.
As the Blaineys prepare for their next adventure, Ray White agent Michelle Huddert, who is marketing the Doves Bay property, highlights: “This amazing property with magical views is an entertainer’s delight with the added benefit of a second title where you could build an additional dwelling, store your campervan or boat or simply play croquet on the lawn.”
- Sponsored by Ray White
