Cedric checks out an impressive family homestead guaranteed to keep horse-lovers happy.
Jane Geor sits in the sun-filled family room of her stylish two-storey home at Alfriston and speaks in glowing terms of a property that has served the Geor family well.
In the past 10 years, family members have become prominentdressage and show-ring riders, magnificent equestrian facilities have been built and Waterford - as the property is known - has become a showplace in one of the most picturesque regions of South Auckland.
Waterford is big by Alfriston standards - 22.197ha - and it's in well-established pasture. The property is divided into 16 paddocks. It is ideal for sheep and cattle grazing, or for development as a horse stud. All the paddocks have ample shelter and trough water.
It carries two titles - one comprising bare land of about 2.6ha, the other comprising about 19.5ha. Close to the Southern Motorway, it is also within easy reach of the Alfriston school, Pointways Pony Club and Ti Papa Equestrian Centre.
The striking, contemporary home was built seven years ago. It is beautifully positioned for the main living and entertainment areas to enjoy maximum sunlight.
It is situated at the end of two long driveways off Alfriston Rd, and the seclusion is further enhanced by clever landscaping.
Jane and her husband, George, wanted a home for their growing family, and a home in which they could entertain on a grand scale.
They have succeeded in both. The house, of more than 430sq m, boasts a superb family living area and a delightful kitchen opening to a large, paved outdoor entertainment area where the focal point is the in-ground swimming pool.
A formal lounge is to the left of the impressive foyer. There are also three bedrooms, a bathroom, laundry and office on this level.
The master bedroom, complete with en suite and walk-in wardrobe, occupies the first floor.
Under-floor heating is supplemented by two open fires and a woodburning stove.
There is also an attached three-car garage and a workshop.
A striking feature is the tree-lined lane that leads from the house to the floodlit, all-weather dressage arena, four stables, tack room and yards.
The property will be auctioned by Bayleys, Papakura, on November 27. Contact Don Macky on 298 2525 for details.
