Awhitu Peninsula: Getting away from it all

CEDRIC GRAY breathes in the fresh air and natural beauty of the Awhitu peninsula.

The sale of a beautifully presented property on the Awhitu peninsula is creating interest, because it enjoys peace and privacy yet it is within a few minutes' drive of some of the region's most popular outdoor attractions - surfing, tramping and horse trekking at Hamilton's Gap on the west coast and fishing at Manukau Harbour.

Owned by Colin and Michelle Mulligan, the property - at 1455 Awhitu Rd, Kohekohe - is about 15km from Waiuku and a comfortable 35-minute drive from the southern motorway.

It is a "get away from it all" region, a description unlikely to remain for along as waterfront properties close to boat ramps and enjoying harbour views continue to sell well. The 4.3ha Mulligan property is close to the Tetoro boat ramp, from which larger vessels are launched to fish the game fishing grounds off the coast.

It is also a short drive away from Kariotahi Beach, where hang-gliding from the lofty dunes is popular. A recent addition to Kariotahi is the Castaways restaurant, with its glorious views of the Tasman Sea and spectacular sunsets.

After five years at Kohekohe, the Mulligans are selling up because they have accepted employment on the North Shore. The asking price is "in the low $400,000s".

"We are reluctant sellers," says Michelle. "We have a family of four boys, and out here they have a ball. It is a great place for family living, and with a little effort it could be converted into a farmstay or even a country cafe." The natural beauty of the property is enhanced by about 3ha of protected native bush, a spring-fed stream and a variety of native bird life.

"It is an adventure playground," she says, adding that the children spend hours making tree huts in the aged puriri trees and catching freshwater crayfish in the clear-water stream. About a hectare is fenced for light grazing.

The five-bedroom house, built about 20 years ago, stands at the end of a lengthy driveway. It boasts a glimpse of the harbour to the north and Lake Pokaroa to the south-east. In the main, however, the beauty belongs to the native bush, and to the small cottage garden Michelle has established at the rear of the house. The garden is ideal for alfresco dining.

A stylish tiled entrance flows to spacious open-style living areas, which include a sun-filled kitchen (with modern appliances), dining room and lounge. A large double bedroom, bathroom and laundry are on this level, and there is an internal access to a double garage.

Three large bedrooms share a central bathroom on the first floor. There are two staircases, one of which provides easy access to the garage.

The property is being marketed by Barfoot & Thompson, Waiuku, where Judy Morris, ph 09 235 0880 or 09 235 1209, has details.