“As a family of nine, we needed a big property,” says the current owner of this enormous estate on the Clifton Peninsula, occupying what he believes is the most superior site in the prestigious neighbourhood, with glorious water views.
He says that the property was built in 1988 and when they bought it in 2009, he and his wife proceeded to extend it significantly, as well as remodelling an existing internal garage into new four bedrooms – in addition to the original three, which included the large prime suite with its walk-in wardrobe and ensuite.
The owner explains that extensive living areas were necessary for the family’s many children, and these include what the Americans would call a ‘great room’, comprising a huge open-plan kitchen, dining and family room.
“The island bar in the kitchen is the biggest one I’ve ever seen, and we had to buy an extra-large dining table,” he laughs.
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A separate formal lounge provides a welcome hideaway for grown-ups and there is a further living room, while a massive recreation/media room is yet another handy space for children and teens.
“I like the light brightness of the home and the fact it’s on a single level,” says the owner. “You can see right through to the water from the front door.”
349 Clifton Road in Whitford, Manukau, is on the market for sale by tender closing May 8. The sprawling coastal retreat has a 2021 RV of $5.3 million and, according to OneRoof data, the property last changed hands in 2009 for $3.5m.
The outdoor entertaining space and amenities are second to none. Photo / Supplied
The homeowner says: “The island bar in the kitchen is the biggest one I’ve ever seen, and we had to buy an extra-large dining table.” Photo / Supplied
Later additions to the property include a bungalow-style, stand-alone office complex, built in 2010, which accommodates a number of staff, enjoying a big kitchenette, full bathroom facilities and a dedicated meeting room.
There’s yet more accommodation capacity in the form of a separate two-bedroom cottage with a spacious living and dining and kitchen area, plus bathroom. It enjoys a sunny wraparound deck.
The owner says that the pool (with its pool house which includes a gun safe, wine cellar and bathroom) and the floodlit tennis court have added to the family’s enjoyment of the split-level section, along with numerous outdoor living areas and two viewing pavilions.
“I love being able to launch my kayak straight into the water and if the weather isn’t great, I can use the gym that I installed in two of the garages.”
He explains that the gym could be converted back if a new owner required more covered parking. The owner says that prior to listing, the property has been given a spruce up.
The huge open-plan kitchen, dining and family room has uninterrupted views of the water. Photo / Supplied
Bayleys agent Angela Rudling says she has never seen multi-generational living so very well catered for at 349 Clifton Road in Whitford. Photo / Supplied
“When the right buyer sees this, they’ll be absolutely thrilled, and it’s perfectly positioned, with easy access to the CBD via the Pine Harbour Ferry. It’s very rare for a trip to the airport to take more than about 40 minutes – in fact it’s usually about 30 minutes.”
Although it’s been a dream family home, he says it would also be a great spot for retirement. “It’s nice and flat for a golf cart.”
Listing agent Angela Rudling, from Bayleys, says that she has never seen multi-generational living so very well catered for.
“I know for a fact that this family absolutely loved it here and it’s a perfect entertainer’s home,” she says.
“The double gated entrance is elegant and stately and the established palm trees add to the resort-like atmosphere. With having your own office complex you can run a business without leaving the property.”
- 349 Clifton Road in Whitford, Manukau, is for sale by tender closing May 8
