Clevedon: Family favourite

Geoff and Jill McCormick were as one when finalising plans for their new home at Clevedon. They agreed that the lovely rural views from the slightly elevated building site must not be restricted in any way, that only quality materials were to be used, that it be warm and welcoming to family and guests and that it should have space with plenty to spare.

They succeeded on all counts. The house was built nine years ago, and Geoff says: "Everything came together beautifully. It has been nine happy years."

The 12.79ha property at the end of no-exit Tyldens Rd was tailor-made for a quality home when the McCormicks moved to the district 10 years ago. The land has a flat to gentle contour, it's free-draining and in clean pasture. Mature specimen trees, exotic and native, are scattered pepperpot fashion, ensuring year-round beauty and welcome stock shelter.

Six paddocks graze cattle to about 18 months old and the pasture is strong enough to be cut for hay. Pointing to a boutique winery on one boundary, Geoff says the land would be equally suited to horticulture. His other neighbour is Ryburn Park, one of two polo grounds in Clevedon.

Ample water is available for the stock and garden irrigation from five large water tanks. There is also a small fresh-water creek and attractive native bush containing mature puriri, kahikatea and other species.

The house has several impressive features, each and every one enhanced by the well-manicured lawns and gardens. The focal point is an ornamental lake surrounded by native planting. Trees and shrubs ensure privacy and the spacious lawns are ideal for outdoor entertaining and family fun. There is also a productive citrus orchard.

Built on two levels (about 600sq m), the north-facing house has six bedrooms (two with en suites), four bathrooms and two toilets. Two of the bedrooms are on the first floor where there is a library and games room.

The stylish kitchen, family room and formal lounge combine to form the centre of the home - a spacious and attractive area adjacent to a conservatory and opening to a sheltered terrace. Underfloor heating is fired by a wetback on one of two fireplaces - in the lounge and family room.

There is a central vacuum system, full security and three-car garaging with internal access.

The McCormicks intend moving to a smaller home now that the children have moved on, and the property is being marketed by Ray White, Papakura, at an asking price of $1,650,000. Contact Bruce Frizzell on 295 2002 or 021 516 305 mob.