Kumeu: Restful haven

CEDRIC GRAY discovers a Kumeu gem with big potential development.

Brian and Charmaine Henshaw took no persuading 13 years ago when it came to buying their 14.467ha property in Fork Rd, Kumeu. Charmaine knew the district well - "it's so private, quiet and peaceful," she says. "I fell in love with it long before the property came on the market." The charm of this small sheep and cattle unit certainly lies in its isolation. It is at the end of an unsealed no-exit road, to all intent and purposes miles from nowhere. Yet it is within a few minutes' drive of the thriving Kumeu township, and in nearby Tawa Rd much smaller properties have sold for more than $1 million in recent years.

With retirement pending - Brian works in air traffic control at Auckland International Airport - the Henshaws plan to buy a smaller property close to the fishing grounds of Northland. Named Havenlea, they will be leaving a property with potential for development, particularly as a stock grazing unit on gentle rolling land.

The pasture is clean, well-sheltered and well-drained. It enjoys a sunny northerly aspect and there is ample spring water pressure-fed to a large holding tank. A patch of protected native bush has been extended by further native planting, and to the north-west a plantation of pines on a neighbouring property adds to the beauty of the valley.

The outbuildings are superior. They include a large four-bay shed near the house, a hay barn capable of storing 750 bales, a shearing shed and stock yards. With its 6m stud, the four-bay shed provides splendid workshop space.

The four-bedroom home occupies a commanding site at the end of a long driveway. It has two distinct living areas, the downstairs area lending itself to a self-contained unit. It already has a large rumpus room - a future living and dining room, perhaps kitchen, two bedrooms, laundry and bathroom.

During the past few years, extensive renovations have been carried out to the first floor, which now opens to a wide balcony to capture the best of the rural views. A superb kitchen serves a large family dining area, the kitchen featuring impressive macrocarpa benchtops made from timber milled on the property.

Winter heating is provided by a woodburner, with wetback, set in a stylish feature fireplace, and the kitchen and bathroom (with spa bath) have underfloor heating. The master bedroom has ranchslider access to the north-facing balcony.

Havenlea is being marketed by Norwest Real Estate, Kumeu, where Mary Massara - ph 412 6279 - has further details.