Tucked away from prying eyes

By CEDRIC GRAY

Silver beech trees line the road frontage and reach well into the driveway, effectively screening a lovely property near Muriwai Beach from the public eye. On that score alone, it ranks as one of Muriwai's best-kept secrets, scarcely warranting more than a passing glance from motorists in Oaia Rd.

About 4ha of deer-fenced pasture, together with 2.5ha of protected native bush surround this three-bedroom home with stunning coastal and rural views. A second substantial building called "the barn" sits nearby.

The property is owned by Robin Mangos and Trish Hoe, an Auckland business couple, who bought it several years ago as a weekend and holiday retreat. Quick to realise its potential as a permanent residence, they almost completely refurbished the interior of the home about 18 months ago.

A striking ivy-covered entrance opens to a large living area on the ground floor. Tastefully furnished, and with a large open fire as a focal point, there is a "second lounge", which has sliding door access to an open deck. There is easy access, too, to the double garage and park-like gardens.

The "hub" of the house, however, is on the first floor where features include a large family lounge and modern kitchen at one end and a compact accommodation wing at the other. The lounge opens to a second elevated deck from which the best of the views can be enjoyed. These views extend deep into the Tasman Sea above Muriwai Beach, and north across Woodhill Forest.

A love of the outdoors extends to the sleeping quarters, where two bedrooms open to another deck and to the swimming pool. The master bedroom has its own en suite, while a central bathroom serves the other two bedrooms. The pool and paved surrounds are part of the several outstanding features of the landscaping. Others include the raised vegetable and herb gardens, "the barn" with its potential for development, and five paddocks.

The barn has a concrete floor, water, power and telephone services, and a wide north-facing deck. It could easily be converted into a self-contained unit.

The property was once part of a large deer farm, hence the use of deer fencing in paddock subdivision. Water for stock is reticulated from a large pond, which nestles in a native bush gully to the rear of the property.

The property will be auctioned on February 24. For details contact Simon Spiller, Harcourts, Kumeu. Ph 411 7494. Simon is also calling for expressions of interest in a neighbouring property of about 2ha with excellent building sites.