One of two unique workingmen's cottages sandwiched between apartment blocks in Auckland's CBD is going under the hammer.
One of two unique workingmen's cottages etched in history and sandwiched between apartment blocks in Auckland's CBD is going under the hammer.
The 1890s cottage at 7 Nicholas St, perched on a narrow lane between Hobson and Nelson Sts, comprises 97sq metres over two-levels, despite sitting on a compact 73sqm section.
A young professional couple, who did not want to be named, bought the kauri cottage three years ago from investor Glyn Primrose but have had a baby and outgrown the property.
The property has been painted inside and out and has a new kitchen. Photo / Ray White Ponsonby
Under their ownership the house has been repainted inside and out and has a new bathroom and kitchen.
Zara Kehoe, who is marketing the property with Angela Saunders from Ray White, said the owners had loved living there.
The owner had told her she would miss how the open plan living area, kitchen and private deck basked in the all-day sun. The Sky Tower could be seen from the deck, while the two bedrooms upstairs had views of the city.
"Even with the high-rises either side, you would think you would be in the shadows, but you are not."
The couple worked in the city and loved its close proximity to the CBD - especially as they were involved in shift work.
The house had a CV of $650,000, but Ms Kehoe said it was difficult to give a price indication for the property because it was so unique.
The small section still included a spacious deck area. Photo / Ray White Ponsonby
"It's quite a tricky one to compare it because all of the recent sales are apartments ... It would be unique. There's nothing like it. All of the character features are still there. It's a really popular apartment alternative for people who want to be close to the city."
The Nicholas St cottages were saved from demolition in 2005 by builder Marx Jones, who renovated them, staying true to the era with new and recycled materials.
He also re-wired, re-roofed and re-piled the property and installed thicker gib to block out the hustle and bustle of the city before selling it to his friend Mr Primrose who sold it in 2013.
The cottages provide a stark contrast to the concrete towers surrounding them. The original door and oversized key is one of its original features along with turned balustrades.
The property had its first open-homes at the weekend and the auction is on July 6 after a three-week marketing campaign.
The details:
• 1890s kauri workingman's cottage.
• CV $650,000.
• 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom.
• Original features include stained windows, front door with large key and turned balustrades.
