There were two rather contradictory attributes that attracted buyers Sallie and David to a bespoke property at Whangamata.
One was that there was a view of Tuhua (Mayor Island) from every room but one, and the other was that you could walk straight out the door and on to the lawn without stepping down.
“It’s unusual to find a house with views that’s not built on the top of a slope,” Sallie says.
In a semi-rural setting about the coastal settlement of Whangamata, the house at 2 Brenton Place was also a good fit with the lifestyle they wanted, having been run as a B and B for several years.
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2 Brenton Place is being run as a B&B called Brenton Lodge. Photo / Supplied
Sallie and David bought it in 2006, deciding to continue the business and adding a chocolaterie and offering dinners.
Brenton Lodge, as it’s now called, comprises a homestead and two separate accommodation suites.
The house sits on a 4000sqm site amidst north-facing gardens and sweeping lawns, and overlooks an inground pool. It’s positioned to take advantage of the ever-changing outlook.
There’s a deck along the front of the house with room for two dining areas, and an adjacent pergola with a capacious lounge setting.
There are two separate suites sited in loft accommodation adjacent to the homestead. Photo / Supplied
The main house offers spacious living and accommodation spaces, many of which open to outdoor living and entertaining areas.
A gourmet kitchen with plenty of bench space, ample storage and up-to-date appliances adjoins a casual dining area and a lounge with a log burner.
There are four elegant bedroom suites, each with its own ensuite and access.
The master has superb easterly views, and its tiled ensuite has a glassed walk-in shower and statement claw-footed bath.
Brenton Lodge comprises a homestead and two separate accommodation suites. Photo / Supplied
Two separate suites are sited in loft accommodation adjacent to the house.
Each has private access, balconies and sea and garden views, and includes a kitchenette, a satellite flat-screen TV and DVD player, comfortable sittings areas, a wardrobe, washing machine and contemporary bathrooms.
The lodge is now 40 years old but Sallie and David have kept it completely up to date.
“When we bought it, computer technology was just a big computer and a screen,” Sallie recalls.
The gourmet kitchen has plenty of bench space, ample storage and up-to-date appliances. Photo / Supplied
“Things have changed and we have had to keep up. It’s a bit like the harbour bridge – you have to keep it current, keep improving.”
The grounds have been landscaped to showcase the inground pool, which has a timber-lined cabana with a bespoke corrugated iron bar.
It’s a favourite hang-out spot for guests, family and friends.
There are practical spaces, too – garaging for six cars, plenty of parking spaces and two high stud garages ideal for boats.
The current owners have kept up with the maintenance of the property. Photo / Supplied
The former chocolaterie where Sallie created her tempting treats will make an ideal space for hobbies or a home business.
The lodge is just a short distance from the surf beach, the wharf, the sports fishing club, and the village with its numerous café and restaurant dining options.
The property is being marketed by Tony White, Lance Parker and Amy Gayford of Harcourts.
Brenton Lodge at 2 Brenton Place in Whangamata goes to auction on October 24.
