358 Lund Road, Kaitikati. Photo / Supplied
Dallas and Chris Goile never tire of the reaction from first-time visitors to their home.
There's usually a "wow" from the moment guests walk through the impressive rough-hewn front door into the generous lobby, with its soaring ceiling, wooden beam and wrought-iron light fitting.
Moments later there's usually a sharp intake of breath followed by a second wow as they move into the living area and see the view.
The house has a stunning rural outlook across to the Bay of Plenty coast, taking in Tauranga Harbour, Matakana Island, Mt Maunganui and the ocean beyond, as well as the Kaimai Ranges.
The Goiles understand why people are stopped in their tracks - that was their reaction when they saw the house two years ago.
"We did exactly what everyone else does when they arrive," says Dallas. "We had seen it on the internet and knew there was a view, but when you actually see it in real life you just can't help going 'wow'.
"We knew pretty much the moment we got here that we wanted to buy it."
It wasn't just the outlook or the location of the home - just 10 minutes from Katikati, 20 minutes from Waihi Beach and half an hour from Tauranga - that won them over. The solid masonry house was exactly what they were after.
Built in 2005 by Landmark Homes, it had won numerous awards in the 2006 Master Builder's House of the Year Awards, including golds in its price category and for workmanship and creativity.
Elements of popular Mediterranean, Tuscan and Santa Fe style are combined with contemporary design to create an elegant home that is classic and comfortable.
Glass bifold doors are a feature of several rooms, including both living rooms and the master bedroom, making the most of the view and allowing the house to be opened up in summer. They lead out to the north-facing patio, perfect for al fresco dining.
"We've had lots of family here for Christmas, as well as friends visiting from Australia, and everyone loves sitting out there to eat," says Dallas. "They all fall in love with the view."
The house has been cleverly designed so its two wings create a courtyard area. The separate lounge is in one wing, and the master bedroom in another.
A second living room, which adjoins the kitchen and dining area and has a striking woodburning fireplace, also opens out to a patio.
"The house has been really well laid out so there are separate areas, but it is also a very sociable home," says Dallas, adding that the fireplace rarely gets used because diesel-powered underfloor heating throughout the house keeps it warm.
She and Chris were impressed by the neutral palette with caramel and black accents, timber beams, mix of tiled and carpeted floors and high ceilings in the living areas.
The home had been extremely well-maintained by the previous owners (the Goiles are only the second owners) and felt like it was new.
The high-quality fixtures and fittings throughout were also appreciated.
An example of the careful thought that went into the house is evident in the en suite bathroom, which won a Master Builders' gold award.
It features a two-person shower with a large showerhead plus jets from the side.
Another nice touch was the inclusion of an area next to the double basins to do hair and makeup.
Outside, there is parking for lots of vehicles, plus a plug for a motorhome. The semi-tropical landscaping is easy to look after and a ride-on mower keeps the front lawn beautifully manicured.
There is plenty of space to add a minor dwelling, subject to council permission, which is something Chris and Dallas considered.
But they won't get the chance. They are moving to be closer to Dallas' ageing parents, so a new owner will get the chance to add their touches.