Herald Island: Island life

CEDRIC GRAY checks out one for the water sport lovers.

The auction this afternoon of a waterfront property on Herald Island is expected to reflect the rapid rise in property values on the island.

Once known as Pine Island when Auckland families were ferried to the upper harbour island for summer picnics, it is one of the Waitemata Harbour's most popular acquatic playgrounds. It has deep water mooring, a number of sheltered beaches and plenty of room for water skiing, yachting and kayaking.

Ten years ago Peter and Lynn Bult were attracted to a 2135sq m property in Twin Wharf Rd, because it was "absolute waterfront" and "crying out for development".

Landscaping was their first priority. They imported 300 tonnes of quarry stone and employed a team of stonemasons to build retaining walls for gardens and walkways to the elevated house sites. They planted native trees and shrubs to complement the pohutukawa already there. Later they installed a trip lighting system so that the lovely lawns and gardens would spring to life at night at the flick of a switch.

A boat shed became a neat two-car garage, and a second building at the end of a sealed driveway has room for four cars on one level, doubling as a cosy rooftop games room to reflect Peter's passion for soccer and standardbred racing.

The house enjoys a commanding elevated site overlooking Christmas Beach, with views across the water towards Coatesville and Riverhead. A sandy beach is only metres from the living room and a formal lounge, separated by expansive outdoor decks, a swimming pool and spa.

The original home was transported to the site by barge, and has since been extensively renovated and enlarged to enhance the views. It now boasts a stunning entrance, an open-plan formal and family area served by a designer kitchen (tongue-and-groove Fijian kauri cabinetry is a feature) and a wonderful flow to the sunny outdoor entertainment area. A striking double fireplace provides winter warmth to the lounge and family room.

Three double bedrooms on the ground floor have private decks, one with views across the gardens to a deep water channel. There is also an office, large laundry and well-appointed bathroom.

The master bedroom upstairs opens to a private tiled deck - again with lovely waterfront views - and has a walk-in wardrobe and en suite.

A boat ramp on the property provides access for a small boat to the harbour.

The property will be auctioned on site at 12.30pm today by Barfoot & Thompson, West Harbour. Contact Jim Ward on 025 713 276 or Jill Page on 025 765 011 for details.