Ramarama: Little gem

CEDRIC GRAY is treated to a tour of a delightful property dubbed the prettiest in the district.

Anyone looking for a little gem in a favoured South Auckland address should pencil the name Briardale in their little black book. It is a pretty 2.3522ha property in Mexted Rd, Ramarama, about a kilometre from the southern motorway.

Archie and Sue McPherson, both city dwellers, were attracted to Briardale's gracious lawns and gardens 10 years ago. Add the mature native trees - which include totara and kahikatea - and a variety of exotics, and the property deserves its reputation as "the prettiest" in a district renowned for the quality of its homes.

The McPhersons take no credit for the beauty of the environment, which was the work of a horticultural enthusiast and former owner, yet they have preserved the year-round colour, variety and attention to detail.

A sweeping driveway ensures seclusion and privacy. An archway of old-fashioned roses and thunbergia and a second contrasting archway of shingle construction are impressive introductions to the park-like setting.

The picture is completed by six well-fenced paddocks, which are grazed year round by 30 Suffolk sheep. Mature oak trees and several other exotic varieties - which are a blaze of colour at this time of year - provide ample shelter. There is quality bore water for stock and household use, and a small stream flows through the property.

Built, in the main, of batten and board construction about 24 years ago, the four-bedroom home is admirably suited to the environment. Extensive renovations in recent years have enhanced the indoor-outdoor flow. A master bedroom, with a walk-in wardrobe and en suite, has been added and a conservatory-style living area has been built to introduce more natural light. Italian tiles add lustre to the neat kitchen and dining area, and a woodburner in the lounge provides ample winter heat.

A cosy cottage, moved to the property in 1986, has one bedroom, is fully contained and has its own entrance to an attached carport.

Briardale is within walking distance of Ramarama Primary School and is in the Rosehill College and Strathallan College zones.

Archie and Sue intend to buy a bigger property in the district, and Briardale is being marketed by Harcourts, Papakura, at an asking price of $750,000. Contact Nicky Holmes on 298 6024 for details.