Whitford-Maraetai: Life on the land

CEDRIC GRAY visits a fabulous home deep in the heart of South Auckland's farming country.

LEFT: Farrier Jim's workshop occupies a corner of a vast 60m x 30m barn on the property.

Body1: When Noel Gillanders bought 600ha of sheep and cattle grazing country fronting the Whitford-Maraetai Rd 37 years ago he quickly established himself as one of South Auckland's leading farmers.

Down through the years his stock commanded premium prices as he capitalised on the fertility of the soil and beneficial rains.

That was when Kiripaka - Noel and Rita Gillanders' property - was in its heyday. The rolling, well-sheltered land wintered 4000 ewes and about 1000 head of cattle. Today, Kiripaka comprises about 24.5ha in one title and the house site of 6870sq m in the other.

The farmland, leased to a neighbouring farmer, is well-fenced and in excellent pasture. There is ample stock shelter, a small patch of mature native bush and excellent water from a deep bore on the property.

The farm buildings include a well-constructed machinery storage shed and well-maintained stock yards.

The classic English-style home is one of the most admired in a district noted for the quality of its lifestyle. The Formosa and Whitford golf courses, Pine Harbour marina (now a commuter ferry service to downtown Auckland) and the Tepapa equestrian centre are nearby attractions.

The beautifully presented home commands sweeping views to the north-east. It was built mainly of kauri milled on the property in 1951, and has since been extended to its present 277sq m on two levels. An attractive entrance leads to a formal lounge, spacious dining area and appealing farmhouse kitchen, where tawa cupboards, wall panelling, corian benchtops, a breakfast bar and an island are features.

An adjacent sun room, opening to an in-ground swimming pool and entertainment area, has become a second family room - arguably the best room in the house for rest and relaxation.

"Noel's Room" is Mr Gillanders' games room. It's a large lounge area and bar containing sporting treasures highlighted by the Gillanders'-owned Sharp and Telford winning the Lion Red Auckland Trotting Cup and the Victorian Derby in 1996.

Three bedrooms upstairs enjoy views to Waiheke and Rangitoto and are served by two bathrooms. There are also glorious views to the south-east across grazing land that formed the original Kiripaka block.

The extensive landscaping features well-groomed lawns and gardens, mature trees and an orchard. A sweeping driveway leads to the entrance and spacious garaging.

Tenders close with Barfoot & Thompson, Whitford, on February 19. Contact Vivienne Cumberland on 530 8292 for details.