This collection of impressive lifestyle blocks from around Auckland will make you want to pack your bags and head to the country
Now we’ve settled into the New Year it’s time to make those resolutions a reality. If you’ve been dreaming of a move to a peaceful life in the country now’s the perfect time to consider your options.
There are many lifestyle blocks listed at the moment with lots on offer in terms of location, size of block, range of amenities, and style of home. See our pick of special retreats below and make sure you check out these practical tips for living on a lifestyle block here.
1. Heritage touches
This relocated villa in Waimauku has lots of heritage touches like pressed metal ceilings, pretty fireplaces and delightful leadlight windows, and also all the convenience of a modern open-plan kitchen with scullery and family room.
The rolling park-like grounds are perfect for a pony or two and an extensive deck flowing from the family room is perfect for relaxing while you enjoy the serenity of the beautiful stands of native totara trees on the property.
Situated down a long drive there’s all the peace you crave. A large barn, and separate two-bedroom cottage for guests completes the picture.
2. Simply charming
This pretty home in Matakana really has charm in spades and makes the most of the expansive views over the surrounding countryside. The central “barn” structure has a relaxed open-plan kitchen, dining and living area that’s warmed by a wood burner in winter.
Another two-storeyed “barn” accessed via a walkway has the three bedrooms and also a cosy attic area for chilling out.
This home really makes the most of its rural aspect but is only a short drive from all the fun of Matakana village.
3. Boathouse row
This offering in Coatesville really is in a very special category. Situated on a generous block less than 30 minutes’ drive off-peak to the city it boasts its own 1.6ha lake.
A jetty across the front of the line of “boathouses” provides direct access to the water and the deck built over the lake will have you feeling as if you’re actually afloat.
The spacious, airy living areas and light-filled bedrooms, including the self contained master suite, all make the most of this home’s beautiful setting. With a barbecue area, spa, boat ramp and workshop this retreat is the stuff dreams are made of.
4. House with a history
This beautiful kauri home in Wellsford was originally built in 1910 for the “father” of Auckland Sir John Logan Campbell. It has all the distinctive period features that you’d expect from a house with such a pedigree, and its been sensitively updated for another era.
The modern kitchen flows to a pretty dining room with a bay window that makes the most of the gorgeous views of the countryside.
Expansive decks offer that all important indoor/outdoor flow and there’s a pizza oven and barbecue area for summer entertaining. Rural living at its best.
5. Options galore
This classic double-brick home in Pukekawa comes complete with an orchard, ponds and a beautiful garden. It has lovely views from every room and a new spacious eat-in kitchen that flows to a generous sunny conservatory.
There’s also a separate formal living area that opens out to a wide verandah.
Three outbuildings offer plenty of options for activities and the three paddocks have deer fencing.
6. Calling horse lovers…
If you’re into horses, then this Waiau Pa home is the lifestyle property for you. With five paddocks, wash down area, tack room, 5x6m shed and all- weather arena, it ticks all the equine boxes.
There’s plenty for the humans too with a new kitchen, spacious living area and master ensuite bedroom that opens to a balcony.
A lot of care has been spent on the gardens, with a delightful gazebo for outdoor dining and paved spa area.
7. Grand dame
This Whitford home has all the charm of yesteryear with its huge country kitchen, wood-panelled dining room and billiard room, grand staircase and spacious bedrooms with large feature windows.
The immaculate grounds boast a tennis court and pond. Sit on one of the decks and enjoy the surrounding countryside and views across the sea to the city.
There are a number of outbuildings that service this very private property.
8. Great location
This lovely modern Clevedon home makes the most of the entrancing views down the valley over paddocks and native bush.
The large open- plan kitchen and living area with a high stud are warmed by a log burner and open out to generous decking.
The master suite has a walk-in wardrobe and its own deck. A lovely retreat that’s still close to Clevedon with its famous farmers’ market and an easy drive to beautiful Orere Point and Miranda hot springs.
9. Going bush
The high stud, decks and large skylights in the living area of this two-storey timber property in Dairy Flat really let the outside in so you can soak up the bush-clad backdrop.
A newly fitted kitchen features stunning marble benches and splash back, and the two bathrooms have also been finished to a high spec. Much of the property is in bush, so you can enjoy peace and privacy without sacrificing weekends to ongoing maintenance tasks.
The double garage has the added bonus of a large loft space that offers plenty of extra options.
Words by: Sarah Beresford.
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