Auckland: Going solo at the Viaduct

Located within The Parc at Auckland's Viaduct, Solo is an affordable means of gaining access to all the facilities of the more luxurious complexes within the waterfront development. The minimalist complex of one-bedroom apartments is being developed by Symphony Group.

Symphony's Gerard McClelland expects sales of these apartments along Pakenham St to be as popular as those in The Vibe, another development in The Parc. He says people have lapped up apartments at The Vibe, because they anticipate if the rental market gets tough, facilities like the park-like spaces, heated pool, spa and gym will pull in tenants.

"There are not many small units here," he says. "Most start at around $500,000 and go over the million-dollar mark. Both investors and owner-occupiers have found them very attractive and they've sold well.

"The owner-occupiers who are buying say it's a great place to start with because of the facilities and the fact they are sling-shotting on the large, luxury apartments."

While Solo is a different style of apartment with car parks available, McClelland anticipates the same thing happening. "Despite the fact there are a lot of small apartments around and The Parc is on leasehold land, nobody seems phased. People are hooking into them."

Designed by Andre Hodgskin Architects, Solo comprises a total of 34 apartments. Construction is expected to start soon and completion is due March 2005. Apartments will have a 21-year lease with perpetual rights of renewal.

For more information, contact Gerard McClelland, Symphony Group, ph 021 883 193 mob.