$15m-$20m expected for city mansion

Estate agent Graham Wall says demand is high for such big properties. Photo / Dean Purcell

Bella Casa, one of Remuera's most luxurious mansions, could set a new record for the suburb this year if it sells for $15 million to $20 million.

Real estate agent Graham Wall is selling the secluded but vast Warren and Mahoney-designed house on Victoria Ave and expects it to top the market.

"We're selling it by negotiation and I've got no idea where the price is going to end up. But we think it's likely to set a price record," he said.

QV lists the house as having a July 2014 rateable value of $10 million: $6.8 million for the third-of-a-hectare site and $3.2 million for the house. But Mr Wall said demand was high for such big, unusual places.

Bella Casa, with a tennis court, indoor heated pool and six bedrooms, was built by Sir Doug Myers in the 90s. Photo / Dean Purcell

The house was built in the early 90s by businessman Sir Doug Myers. Wayne Leach of Winger Motors bought it in 2005.

The property, with ornate Italian-style gardens, is nestled down a long right-of-way behind high electronic gates. The cobbled driveway has parking for six vehicles and a four-car garage with staff quarters above.

The entranceway, flanked by a bed of gardenias, leads to formal and informal entertaining areas and a grand staircase. The hall floor is covered in light-toned Travertine marble.

Bedrooms are on the top level, each with their own separate en suites. The north-facing master bedroom overlooking the gardens has his-and-hers shoe cupboards and a separate dressing area.

Doric columns flank the main living room exit to an upper-level lawn surrounded by hedges for privacy.

The 16m indoor heated salt-water pool is a level beneath the main house, accessed via stairs through the gardens and through the house. The pool has its own sauna, bathroom and changing areas and an entertainment room, with walnut-lined walls and French oak parquet flooring.

The flood-lit tennis court a further level down is ringed by hedges for privacy. Mr Wall said the house faced north to maximise sun and since 2012 had undergone a substantial renovation in many parts, including the kitchen, bathroom and pool areas.

In 2013, Mr Wall set a record when he got $39 million for a Paritai Dr property, partly financed by former Hanover Finance boss Mark Hotchin, sold to Oravida founder Deyi Shi.

Bella Casa

• Victoria Ave, Remuera.
• 3433sq m site, 1128sq m three-level house.
• 16m heated indoor swimming pool, flood-lit tennis court.
• Six bedrooms, six bathrooms.
• 2000 bottle wine cellar.
• Separate staff residence.
• Designed by Sir Miles Warren.