St Lukes

By CHARLOTTE COSSAR.

Well-KNOWN for its popular and successful shopping centre, St Lukes is also a suburb of choice for many residents desiring close proximity to the CBD, yet requiring a destination to travel to.

Confused locals often ponder the question of what actually defines their suburb. Is it Morningside, or perhaps more Kingsland? Some might claim Mt Albert, while others would say it was definitely Mt Eden. The suburb is definitely characterised by its shopping centre, however it does have a heart of its own and a sense of pride among residents.

"I am St Lukes," claims 14-year resident Sarah. "I always tell anyone who asks that I live in St Lukes and am proud to do so. I work in the city so I have numerous short routes to travel to work, yet coming home is never an effort."

And the cosmopolitan nearness to the city is what appeals to many. St Lukes possesses an ethnic, social and cultural diversity, yet a cohesion that many suburbs in the greater metropolitan area envy. There are numerous ethnic eating establishments in the area and the Indian temple on Balmoral Rd is a local icon.

The real estate clearly reflects the lifestyles of its inhabitants. Many locals live in townhouses and smaller apartment-style accommodation. Sought-after villas and bungalows are definitely in existence, as well. Some of the beautifully renovated villas, however, tend to be smaller with only two to three bedrooms.

There is an abundance of apartments in the area. Many of these are close to the shopping complex, while a number of new conversions of old industrial land into multi-storey apartment buildings along Morningside Dr are under construction.

One thing about St Lukes is its affordability - especially for a suburb so close to the city. Three-bedroom apartments - suitable for families not requiring extra garden space - will sell for around the $400,000 mark. In line with the apartment lifestyle, there are also large four-bedroom apartments for sale. One-bedroom apartments are available for up to $200,000, while quality two-bedroom apartments will sell for upwards of $250,000 - although it is not too difficult to locate a bargain.

Plenty of amenities are available in the area - the recently revamped shopping centre, which attracts visitors from all over the city, now has new cinemas. There are medical facilities along St Lukes Rd and the area is not short of schooling options. Recreational parks suitable for walking or watching the Mt Albert rugby league club in action are close at hand, and there are also gym and swimming facilities. Of course, Eden Park is in the vicinity and easy to walk to for those night time cricket and rugby matches. Other retail options include Briscoes around the back of the Mt Albert School and the well-patronised Carters store just around the corner.