Podcasts about whangaparaoa

It was once labelled one of the worst public transport services in the country, but Auckland's Gulf Harbour ferry service is back to a full schedule of sailings from today, after years of frequent cancellations and reduced timetables. Ferry crew shortages meant many commuters were stuck with hours long replacement buses or even taxis, taking them the 50 kilometres by road from Auckland's CBD to the Whangaparaoa peninsula. Then last year Auckland Transport proposed canning the service altogether, prompting backlash from the community and a petition to keep it running. Now it looks like the service's problematic past is behind it, but as Luka Forman reports, it'll take time and effort to win back the trust of locals.

During World War Two the New Zealand government commissioned three top secret military tunnels to be built. Fort Stony Batter on Waiheke, Whangaparaoa Peninsula, and Wrights Hill in Wellington.

A long promised Auckland highway will cost motorists who want to drive over it. The O Mahurangi Penlink connection is set to open in 2026, and will connect the Whangaparoa Peninsula to State Highway 1. It will shave 20 minutes off the drive time but will cost $3 each way at peak times. Some locals say the new highway shouldn't be tolled, and some others are annoyed it's only one lane each way. Finn Blackwell and camera operator Nick Monro have the story.

An Auckland Councillor says a new toll charge coming in north of the city is unfair. The Government is expected to slap it on a new $830 million Whangaparaoa arterial route, opening in 2026. The highway's expected to save 20 minutes of travel at peak times, but will cost light vehicles $3 during congested times, and $2 at off peak. Albany Ward Councillor John Watson says a lot has changed since there was public agreement the road should be tolled. "As everyone knows, we have a fuel tax, 11.5 cents a litre. We have the very real possibility of congestion charging coming in around about the time Penlink opens." LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our cameraman Nick Monro caught some orca cruising in the waters off Big Manly Beach in Whangaparaoa this morning. Two of them appear to have feasted on a stingray for breakfast - and others were summersaulting through the water. It was a beautiful, chilly morning in Auckland this morning - perfectly still for Nick to be able to capture this video on his drone.  

There are concerns a toll being proposed for Auckland's next highway could put people off using it. Waka Kotahi is proposing introducing a toll for Penlink – between Whangaparaoa and State Highway 1 in Redvale – when it opens in 2026. It's suggesting prices ranging from one-dollar to four dollars, with different costs for peak and off-peak times. Penlink Now lobby group member Janet Fitzpatrick told Tim Dower if the toll is too high, it could encourage road users to keep using the existing local road instead. “There is a lot of growth going to go on in that area, to encourage people to go back to using the free route, just does not make sense to me.” LISTEN ABOVE 

ZMH286 Gulf Harbour Radio reporting weather and sailing conditions and communicating with yachts sailing in the South Pacific. Broadcast at 1915 UTC Monday to Saturday, from May to November. Transmitted from Whangaparaoa, New Zealand, kw unknown. In association with Yachts in Transit, http://www.yit.nz/gulf-harbour-radio. There are some deep fades during the transmission.  Recorded by Lekiodx, courtesy of the Shortwave Radio Archive. Part of the Shortwave Transmissions project, documenting and reimagining the sounds of shortwave radio - find out more and see the whole project at https://citiesandmemory.com/shortwave

Pōhutukawa trees are bursting into bloom around Aotearoa as we head into summer. But the beautiful bright-red flowers are not just good to look at, says Whangaparaoa forager Calum Hodgson. He's come up with a recipe for Pōhutukawa Stamen Cordial.

Warehouse workers say they're devastated to lose their jobs as more than a thousand positions hang in the balance. Six stores are in the firing line - The Warehouse stores in Whangaparaoa, Johnsonsville and Dunedin Central, and Warehouse Stationery in Te Awamutu and Noel Leeming in Henderson and Tokoroa. But staff at the Warehouse Birkenhead store and Noel Leeming Papanui and The Palms stores are preparing for the closure of their stores next month. Single mother Ana Gray found out she'd been made redundant last week after more than 10 years at the Warehouse Birkenhead store. While her children have grown up, she told reporter Tess Brunton she's preparing for a tough couple of months.

RNZTwo New Zealand passengers leaving the Diamond Princess cruise liner in Japan have tested positive for the Covid-19 coronavirus.They were barred from taking the evacuation flight which left Tokyo at 5am.The pair were among eight New Zealand passengers due to arrive in Auckland tonight.The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade said during final medical checks, two of those passengers tested positive for Covid-19 and did not travel on the flight.They are being treated in hospital in Japan and MFAT consular staff remain in contact with them.Earlier, two other New Zealand passengers had contracted the virus and are also being treated in hospital in Japan.It was reported yesterday that another 88 people on the ship had tested positive for coronavirus, taking the total number of those infected to 542.There were originally 3,700 people on board the ship when it docked in Yokohama on February 4.Japanese health officials said 65 of those who had been recently confirmed as infected were not showing any symptoms.The 14-day quarantine period for the ship ends today, and passengers have been told if they test negative they will be able to leave.Many countries have already made arrangements to take their citizens home. On Monday the US evacuated 330 Americans who had been on board the ship, while 11 New Zealanders remained on board.They were been offered the opportunity to be evacuated by Australia, with eight of them taking up the offer - although two tested positive this morning.They will be flown via Darwin to Auckland and will face a further two-week quarantine period - most likely at Whangaparaoa - when they get home.Two of the remaining Kiwis on board have chosen to stay offshore for another 14 days before returning to New Zealand, while the third is an overseas resident, according to a spokesman from the office of Minister of Health David Clark.

Another 99 people aboard the Diamond Princess cruise ship quarantined in Japan have tested positive for coronavirus, the Japanese health ministry says.The Diamond Princess has been docked outside Yokohama under quarantine since February 4 after people on board were found to have been infected with Covid-19.The total number of virus carriers has now hit 454, according to Japan's public broadcaster NHK news - nearly 13 per cent of the 3600 people who were on board.Of those, 85 are passengers and 14 are crew. The health ministry said 19 of the infected people were in serious condition, with some of them in intensive-care units.NHK reported ministry officials as saying the ship's preventive measures may not be working properly and they needed to work out why the virus was still spreading.People on board are still being tested, with those whose tests are negative allowed to disembark from Wednesday.Among the passengers are 11 New Zealanders who are expected to be evacuated by Australia shortly.While they have been quarantined on the cruise ship they will be quarantined again when they return home.Two more Kiwis are in hospital after contracting the virus.Passengers were due to leave the ship on Wednesday but would have to undergo supervised quarantine when they arrive in New Zealand.Director general of health Ashley Bloomfield said Japanese authorities were testing people as they left the boat but quarantine was still needed.The 11 Kiwis due to be evacuated from the Diamond Princess cruise ship in Yokohama will be quarantined again on return to New Zealand. Photo / Supplied"The issue we are thoughtful about there is if someone is in the early stages of the disease and not symptomatic at all, they may be brewing the infection but not have a positive test," he said.The passengers were a higher risk than those who had been evacuated from the disease epicentre of Wuhan because about 10 per cent of people on the boat had contracted the disease, Dr Bloomfield said.Australia has just announced it will evacuate the more than 200 Australians, as well as the New Zealanders, who are on board the Diamond Princess.Prime Minister Scott Morrison said a Qantas charter flight would fly the passengers from Japan to Australia on Wednesday."We'll also be providing spaces on our flight to New Zealanders, I've been in contact with Prime Minister [Jacinda] Ardern and they welcome that arrangement as well."New Zealand passengers will be transferred from Darwin back to their quarantine arrangements in New Zealand."New Zealand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade has confirmed the offer.New Zealand consular officials are in close contact with New Zealanders on the ship and are working with Australian and Japanese counterparts on the necessary approvals and requirements for those who wish to be evacuated.Japanese authorities had suggested some passengers might need to stay on board after Wednesday if they had an elevated risk and were not being evacuated by their countries.Some of the New Zealanders were distressed at that idea but the Government was working to help them, Ardern said.Otago University epidemiologist Michael Baker said the on-board quarantine was not enough to guarantee the people would be disease free when they arrive home."There will be many surfaces on that ship that have viruses on them because there are so many people who were infected. So, as a result, it's very hard to control transmission in that setting," he said.Meanwhile, the 157 people quarantined at a centre in Whangaparaoa after being evacuated from Wuhan are also due to leave on Wednesday.The Government is considering whether to keep it ready to continue being used as a quarantine centre.- Additional reporting RNZ / ABC

My guest on today's show is an aspiring star of her game. Her name is Michaela Sokolich-Beatson and she's a starting defender for the Northern Mystics Netball Team in the ANZ Premiership Competition. Michaela grew up on the Whangaparaoa peninsula, 45 minutes north of Auckland City, where she attended the local College and played representative […]The post EP 27 – Michaela Sokolich-Beatson – From Netball Hater to Star Performer appeared first on AUT Millennium News.

My guest on today's show is an aspiring star of her game. Her name is Michaela Sokolich-Beatson and she's a starting defender for the Northern Mystics Netball Team in the ANZ Premiership Competition. Michaela grew up on the Whangaparaoa peninsula, 45 minutes north of Auckland City, where she attended the local College and played representative […]The post EP 27 – Michaela Sokolich-Beatson – From Netball Hater to Star Performer appeared first on AUT Millennium News.

Property ID: 437869 Price: $695,000 All combined this property creates an interesting proposition. Set on just over a hectare of grounds overlooking a freshwater lake you could well think you are in the country yet shops and schools are less than a 5 minute drive away. Planned to cater for bed and breakfast or home stay the main dwelling could well suit an extended family. As well, the separate 2 bedroom cottage offers a rental income, great to help with the mortgage. With a little landscaping the grounds could be developed into a park like setting. As well as the double garage a studio is included, a welcome retreat for the artist seeking a quiet spot to create a masterpiece. Call Peter today to arrange your viewing. Branch: Warkworth Agent: Peter Marsh

Property ID: 428762 Price: Tender With world renowned Goat Island Marine Reserve at your doorstep, you are presented with a unique chance to make a long term investment within Auckland's popular aquatic playground. Family interests have decided to sell their 4.8 hectare holding that has provided them with summer holidays over many decades. In three titles you are presented with countless opportunities to explore. Lot 1 set on 3766 square metres contains the sound 3 bedroom home with northerly views over the bay. Lot 2 is an elevated bare block comprising 9922 square metres with panoramic outlook to the north and east. Lot 3 is a larger block of 3.5120 hectares with a stream boundary, some bush, and runs back to higher ground providing further views over Goat Island and the ocean. With the beach so close you can swim every day, enjoying the abundant marine life in their natural environment. Being just around an hour from Auckland City, Goat Island acts like a magnet over the summer months. Just think of the possibilities. You are offered the opportunity to submit your Tender on one, two, or three Lots. So don't hesitate. Call for an information pack today. Branch: Warkworth Agent: Peter Marsh Mob:0274 979 290 Office: 09 425 8742 AH: (09)423 9030

Property ID- 424376 - Price- $799,000 Main House with internal double garage. Second level: Four bedrooms and one bathroom designer kitchen, living area, dining area, spacious deck for BBQ, Third floor Master bedroom and 1 ensuite and living area separated from children. Income Two bedrooms, 1 bathroom, internal single garage. Approx floor area 345m², land area 722m². Rental income $1,000 per week. Walk to Pinehill school, park and ride, Westfield shopping mall and handy to motorway. Branch: Browns Bay Agent: Jessica Noh

Property ID- 423848 - Price- $445,000 Built in an era when solid indigenous timbers were abundant this single level homestead has stood the test of time. Re sited amidst an expanse of near level lawns with pristine native bush as a backdrop you could well believe that this home has been here forever. While tastefully refurbished and decorated in keeping with its time, and the addition of modern appliances like heat pump, the residence retains that homely country feel. With the wide central hallway and separate lounge opening to the covered veranda that leads to the lawns, there is a great feeling of space. Mature shade trees are a cool haven in summer while the adjoining bush is a sanctuary for native birds. In the country, YES. 5 minutes from shops, YES. Worth inspecting? Definitely YES. Branch: Warkworth Agent: Peter Marsh

Property ID- 424016 - Price- Sale by negotiation Designed with simplicity in mind by architect Kerry Francis, this modern contemporary home, just under 75 minutes from Auckland CBD will be your haven from city life. Featuring open plan living areas and bedrooms opening to extensive wooden decks, state of the art appliances, downstairs games room (could be transformed to accommodation) and ample garaging, the home overlooks 6 hectares of park like grounds in a country setting. As well the separate guest studio offers income opportunities. Tasteful landscapes with tropical palms, native bush walks, wetlands and ponds attract a wide variety of birdlife. Included is a pine nut plantation, auto irrigated palm nursery, and abundant fruit trees. At the end the day, take a swim in the Aqua Gym pool, barbeque on the deck, or relax beside the outdoor fireplace watching the sun melt down into the western horizon. Branch: Warkworth Agent: Peter Marsh

Property ID- 417418 - Price- $1,397,000 3.4820 hectares of rolling pasture. One level 3 bedroom, 3 bathrooms spacious north facing home with a 2 bedroom separate self contained granny flat currently being used as an office. Other buildings include, hangar style hay barn, 2 stables, single garage, carport, holding pen. Panoramic views both from house and potential second building site on the same title. Branch: Torbay Agent: Barney Cornaga

Property ID- 416320 - Price- $480,000 Takahoa Bay Estate is a mere 90 minutes from the city. Here is a place where the sea wanders in and out of the hills, where white sandy beaches enhance sapphire waters; a place to explore waterways by kayak, windsurf, fish the harbour in a runabout, play tennis, wander the farm park or just take timeout to watch the swans on the wildlife reserve. Only 8 km's from SH1 and set amidst a managed farm park, facilities include sealed roadways, all tide boat ramp and trailer park, residents tennis court, harbour side picnic spots, an olive grove and secure electronic gateway. Lot 17 is lakeside lot where wild birds like graceful swan come to rest. A spot that will be a joy for those who seek a quiet place to reflect on the simple things that Mother Nature provides. Construct your home on this sunny site taking advantage of the peaceful lake and ever-changing harbour views. Branch: Warkworth Agent: Peter Marsh

Property ID- 402886 - Price- Tender closes on 11/12/2009 at 4:00pm Lot 12 1940m² - 1940 sq metres - an elevated site with easy building contour giving harbour wide views to northeast and west. It is about a 5 minute walk or 1 minute drive down to the large grassy beach front reserve with wharf and boat ramp. Pahi Ridge Coastal Estate is complemented by concrete roading and foot paths, street lighting, and each section has underground power and telephone. Branch: Warkworth Agent: Peter Marsh

Property ID- 412982 - Price- $775,000 Our vendors must sell this view and a property, which will capture the heart of even the most discerning buyers looking for a family home. Sitting on a 1337m² fully fenced section the views are captured from the deck, dining, living, kitchen and bedrooms. With all this and the added bonus of a private courtyard there is plenty of room for your family to spread out and enjoy. Bring the tramp, the spa, the pets there's room for you all. 4 double bedrooms, a large living area, 2 bathrooms as well as a sun deck and a wonderful veranda running along the seaward side. The location is sought after, down the drive to an enclave of high quality homes, peaceful and quiet, and the home is immaculate. Bring the tramp, the spa, the pets there's room for you all. BE QUICK -There are children in this home who want to be with their grandparents in Britain. Call me it's your move Branch: Warkworth Agent: Sandy Gordon

Property ID- 413870 - Price- $1,250,000 SERIOUSLY FOR SALE. SELLING AS ONE OR THREE SEPERATE BLOCKS. This prime opportunity must be viewed to be appreciated. Sensational views over Omaha and the Gulf. Enjoy absolute privacy on 18.3ha of paradise. This property will make an ideal country B+B, Luxury retreat or exclusive family home totally private with panoramic views. Also available are two separate 2ha blocks with building sites, and the same sensational views on their own titles, which can be sold separately or all together. This luxury lodge styled home has an open plan interior with excellent indoor-outdoor flow. 5 bedrooms 3 bathrooms 2 lounges, open fire, gourmet kitchen and an enormous garage and workshop plus an entertainers dream patio with large gazebo and barbecue area. It is rare to find a home today that displays the extraordinary characteristics and craftsmanship as displayed in this substantial home in a location most would only dream of. This unique property is seriously for sale and a must to view for those searching for a private, luxurious home or exclusive B+B. Branch: Warkworth Agent: Bruce Goodhue

Property ID- 389851- Price- $249,000 Only some 12 minutes west of Kaiwaka, you will find this 4 hectare (approx 10 acres) bare block overlooking the tranquil Whakaki Inlet. Quietly nestled down a pretty country lane, with building sites to take advantage of either the elevated views, or closer to the native bush, you will find a site to suit your needs. Build here to create a peaceful lifestyle for your family, and raise a few cattle, ponies for the children, enjoy canoeing round the numerous inlets on the harbour, or just enjoy the peace and quiet this country district has to offer Branch: Warkworth Agent: Peter Marsh

Property ID- 416603 - Price- $373,000 Takahoa Bay Estate is a mere 90 minutes from the city. Here is a place where the sea wanders in and out of the hills, where white sandy beaches enhance sapphire waters; a place to explore waterways by kayak, windsurf, fish the harbour in a runabout, play tennis, wander the farm park or just take timeout to watch the swans on the wildlife reserve. Only 8 km's from SH1 and set amidst a managed farm park, facilities include sealed roadways, all tide boat ramp and trailer park, residents tennis court, harbour side picnic spots, an olive grove and secure electronic gateway. Lot 37 is elevated yet sheltered. A relaxing spot to sit on the grass and watch the ebb and flow of the inner harbour with its rural outlook that stretches for miles and miles. Here you can nestle your home alongside your own piece of totara forest with its fantails and tui. A haven for children to safely explore and play. Branch: Warkworth Agent: Peter Marsh

Property ID- 366614 - Price- $845,000 Located on the edge of the Kaipara Harbour 80 minutes north of Auckland this energy efficient contemporary three bedroom home is complemented by large floor to ceiling windows and ranch sliders in every room. The large living areas, lounge, dining and kitchen enjoy all day sun with sparkling water views and spectacular sunsets. Wake to these views in either of the master bedrooms, each with ensuite, the third bedroom also has access to an ensuite. A luxury bathroom services the living areas. Under floor heating throughout provides an excellent ambiance to this very friendly home. Also available to the residents of this subdivision is an all weather court, boat ramp, barbeque areas and walking tracks in addition to the wild life reserve lake with its population of Black Swans, Canada Geese, Royal Spoonbills, various families of ducks plus many other species of bird life. Branch: Warkworth Agent: Peter Marsh

Property ID- 365653 - Price- Sale by negotiation At Takahoa, less than 80 minutes north of Auckland, you will find your escape from the clutter of urban living. Encompassing 202 hectares, Takahoa Bay Coastal Estate and Farm Park, runs down to a white sandy beach and deep water harbour. Each of the 48 sites has outstanding views of the Kaipara Harbour or Takahoa Lake, some even have bush included. Land sizes range from 2610 sq meters to 5 hectares. A limited number of sites remain priced from $195,000 - select one that suits your lifestyle. Covenants ensure that dwellings are compatible with the natural characteristics of the landscape. Residents shared use facilities include tennis court, boat ramp, walking tracks, and Bush Reserves. Protected native trees ensure an enduring habitat for the native bird population. Takahoa Lake wildlife reserve is home to swans, ducks, geese and many other bird species. Kaiwaka village with its bakery, cafe's, and Jaques Store, is only a 6 minute drive while Mangawhai with its surf beach, golf course, and restaurants is about 20 minutes. To be part of the Takahoa community email Peter now for an information pack. Branch: Warkworth Agent: Peter Marsh

Property ID- 352105 - Price- Sale by negotiation Clean rolling pasture with harbour and forest views offer you a unique lifestyle away from the crowded city. The farmland in a separate title of 53.6 hectares, has some patches of mature native bush, is well fenced, has good stockyards, and presently grazes dry stock. Ideal for dairy heifers or fattening. Uniquely positioned amidst a grotto of natural rock with tree lined entry way the convivial single level residence sports a large open plan kitchen/dining area, separate lounge with Kent fireplace, 4 big bedrooms, and a standalone rumpus come games room. Tall palms, wide lawns and various outbuildings offer lots of gardening opportunities within the 2.9 hectares homestead title. School bus is at the gate and boat ramp to the Kaipara is only 6 short minutes drive away. So for the family that dreams of country living, "Te Moe Moea" is for you because translated "Te Moe Moea" means "the dream". So, this is your chance to live your family dream. Call me now for your private viewing right now. Comprising house and farmland in two titles totaling 56.5 hectares Te Moe Moea is offered for sale by Tender. Call me now for your private viewing. Branch: Warkworth Agent: Peter Marsh

Property ID- 317919 - Price- Tender closes on 11/12/2009 at 4:00pm Once a bustling timber and fishing township, historic Pahi is now a quiet peninsular retreat almost encircled by tidal waters. A place where brilliant sunrises and dazzling sunsets will entertain. A place to sit and ponder beneath the gigantic Moreton Bay fig (planted about 1850). A place to just relax then perhaps catch a fish from the wharf or launch your boat and head down the Kaipara for a day's fishing. At Pahi Ridge Coastal Estate, a little over 90 minutes north of Auckland, there are only nine sections remain. All have views to the harbour, some are spectacular. The remaining sections are offered for sale by Tender. Offer on one, or two, or the lot. Come to Pahi and discover a long forgotten way of life - the way life used to be. The way it should be. Check out these reference numbers for more info: Www.barfoot.co.nz/311902, /311903 /311907, /311908 /311909 /311915 /311916 /311917 /40288 Branch: Warkworth Agent: Peter Marsh

Property ID- 311916 - Price- Tender closes on 11/12/2009 at 4:00pm Lot 15 2246m² - a steeper site lying to north and east with extensive views of farmland beyond the harbour with village green, wharf, and boat ramp below. Great spot to watch the annual Pahi Regatta. It is about a 6 minute walk or 1 minute drive down to the large grassy beach front reserve with wharf and boat ramp. Pahi Ridge Coastal Estate is complemented by concrete roading and foot paths, street lighting, and each section has underground power and telephone. Branch- Warkworth Agent- Peter Marsh

Property ID- 311911 - Price- Tender closes on 11/12/2009 at 4:00pm Lot 10 2155m² - a steeper contour facing north with good views of both harbour reaches. It is about a 5 minute walk or 1 minute drive down to the large grassy beach front reserve with wharf and boat ramp. Pahi Ridge Coastal Estate is complemented by concrete roading and foot paths, street lighting, and each section has underground power and telephone. Branch- Warkworth Agent- Peter Marsh

Property ID- 311909 - Price- Tender closes on 11/12/2009 at 4:00pm Lot 8 1887m² - has an easy building contour, faces north, and has views to the harbour on both sides of the peninsular. It is about a 5 minute walk or 1 minute drive down to the large grassy beach front reserve with wharf and boat ramp. Pahi Ridge Coastal Estate is complemented by concrete roading and foot paths, street lighting, and each section has underground power and telephone. Branch- Warkworth Agent- Peter Marsh

Property ID- 311908 - Price Tender closes on 11/12/2009 at 4:00pm Lot 7 1705m² - has a gentle contour and faces north looking over homes and farmland with views of the upper Te Pahi reaches of the harbour. It is about a 5 minute walk or 1 minute drive down to the large grassy beach front reserve with wharf and boat ramp. Concrete roading and foot paths, street lighting complement Pahi Ridge Coastal Estate, and each section has underground power and telephone. Branch- Warkworth Agent- Peter Marsh

Property ID- 311903 - Price: Tender closes on 11/12/2009 at 4:00pm Lot 2 2015m² - reasonable contour facing to the north with building site that will give views over both sides of the peninsular. It is about a 5 minute walk or 1 minute drive down to the large grassy beach front reserve with wharf and boat ramp. Pahi Ridge Coastal Estate is complemented by concrete roading and foot paths, street lighting, and each section has underground power and telephone. Branch- Warkworth Agent- Peter Marsh

Property ID- 311902 - Price: Tender closes on 11/12/2009 at 4:00pm Lot 1 2283m² - a larger corner site of easy contour with glimpses of the harbour. It is about a 5 minute walk or 1 minute drive down to the large grassy beach front reserve with wharf and boat ramp. Pahi Ridge Coastal Estate is complemented by concrete roading and foot paths, street lighting, and each section has underground power and telephone. Click on the video tab above. Branch- Warkworth Agent- Peter Marsh

Property ID- 420242 - Price- Sale by negotiation This is a fantastic opportunity to purchase a quality home in sought-after Scotts Landing. Approximately 1 hours drive from Auckland this is the perfect option for peaceful weekend living. Situated on the beautiful Mahurangi Peninsula, Scotts Landing has the historic Scott's House and all the history that goes with it. It is also just a few minutes drive from Matakana with its Cinemas and Saturday markets, Vineyards for wine tasting expeditions, and the pristine white sands of Omaha beach and the Tawharanui regional park when you feel like some waves. Matakana coast is the play ground for Aucklanders who flock here every weekend to enjoy the outdoor relaxed environment. Fishing, diving, surfing, swimming, walks, horse riding, boating whatever your favorite pastime you will find it here. Designed by architect Malcolm Halley and built for casual living the whole house captures the light and sun from morning till night it would have to be one of the nicest homes I have had the pleasure to market. Upstairs open plan living and a master bedroom with its own office and ensuite, downstairs two bedrooms with a second bathroom, double carport, laundry and storage. The simple elegance and interior flair of the owner will delight you. An alfresco dining area suspended over the driveway with a wind out canvas roof for shade and summer rain leads to a private entertaining area for larger gatherings. You will be the envy of your friends when you entertain them in the incredible indoor-outdoor living spaces complete with an open fire in the courtyard. Built to the view and the sun, this could be your turning point to a lifetime of wonderful weekends. Or even better make this your permanent home. If you are looking for the ultimate private retreat style home then don't be disappointed, be at the open homes or phone Lynn now for more information on this delightful gem! Branch: Warkworth Agent: Lynn Kirkland-Hammar

Property ID- 311917 - Price- Tender closes on 11/12/2009 at 4:00pm Lot 16 1925m² metres - a steeper site lying to north and east with extensive views of farmland beyond the harbour with village green, wharf, and boat ramp below. Grand stand position to watch the annual Pahi Regatta. It is about a 6 minute walk or 1 minute drive down to the large grassy beach front reserve with wharf and boat ramp. Pahi Ridge Coastal Estate is complemented by concrete roading and foot paths, street lighting, and each section has underground power and telephone. Branch: Warkworth Agent: Peter Marsh

Property ID- 384695 - Price- Sale by negotiation 1 of 11 fantastic almost waterside full sites ranging from 800m2 to 1021m2, most enjoying close water views across the road to Island Bay and inner harbour with superb sunsets. Lot 2 is 808m2, has a gentle slope to the North West, and has unobstructed close water views. These unique sections "tick all the boxes" – they are private, secluded, north facing, very sunny, sheltered, & have gentle to moderate slopes for easy building. You will love waking up to the relaxing sound of birdsong echoing from the mature kauri forest across the road, or being so close to the beach, boat ramps & wharf at Island Bay where you can fish, swim, go boating or windsurfing while the kids play on the playground. Waterside land is getting harder to find these days – don't miss this opportunity to build your dream home on one of these exclusive sites. NB There are covenants in place to ensure high quality building, and these properties are surrounded by executive homes. Branch: Beach Haven Agents: Cheryll Scott & David Holton