Kumeu: The Perfect Tonic

This large, Mediterranean-style home in a splendid garden setting is a rural delight. By CEDRIC GRAY.

Kumeu township is as vibrant as any rural town in the Auckland region, yet one can be alone in the "backblocks" a few minutes' drive from the shopping centre. The contrast is one reason why lifestyle blocks of a few hectares are in such demand and why Kumeu real estate firms search with such diligence for properties to list for sale.

Drive to the end of Kauri Cr, about 8km from the town centre, and a 4.068ha property highlights the contrast. The Mediterranean-style home would be admired in any fashionable Auckland suburb; the rambling old-fashioned gardens demand the space only a rural setting can provide.

Further, there is the unusual location. Kauri Cr is largely unsealed. It traverses a lovely area of protected native bush owned by the University of Auckland, and the property at the end of the road - now owned by Bruce and Pauline Mcvicar - was once a healing centre. For those in need of splendid isolation it must have been the perfect tonic.

The home, of about 480sq m and built 25 years ago, has been extensively renovated over the past decade. Beautifully sited at the end of a tree-lined driveway, it has seven bedrooms, four separate bathrooms and an en suite. There are three laundries, a couple of sunrooms and auxiliary rooms in the downstairs accommodation wing, which could easily be converted into a library or TV snug.

Best of all is the sunny, north-facing courtyard - a large paved area with a pear-shaped swimming pool, spa area and ample space for pool-side entertaining on a grand scale. Most of the downstairs rooms and the master bedroom on the first floor have sliding door access to the courtyard.

Two large living areas are another feature. The main family area is located near the entrance foyer and includes a modern kitchen, family dining area and an attractive formal lounge. A second kitchen and dining area is available for house guests and would be suitable for conference or seminar guests. Winter heating is provided by a Jotul fireplace in the formal lounge and a Stanley woodburner in the second kitchen.

The gardens are brimming with colour and variety. Two or three lawns, complete with sun shelters and surrounded by mature trees, rambling roses and summer-flowering perennials, are at their best at this time of year. A dozen or more varieties of fruit trees are an added attraction.

There is a self-contained cottage nearby.

The grazing land is in average pasture and suitable for sheep and ponies. A large pond attracts native bird life.

The property, with an asking price of $990,000, is being marketed by Mary Massara, Norwest Realty, Kumeu, ph 412 6279 or 021 412 622.