Rārangi Hou
Auction: 34 Shortland Street, City on Wednesday 19 March 2025 at 10:00AM (unless sold prior)
When two architects discovered this charming do-up villa and cottage—rumoured to be the original Harbourmaster’s House for Cox’s Bay—they saw its potential for transformation. Their vision? A contemporary storybook home, set within an enchanting garden, with the added flexibility for multi-generational living.
Now beautifully reimagined, this exceptional residence seamlessly blends heritage character with modern sophistication. The main villa and the two-bedroom cottage sit on two freehold cross-lease titles, totalling 736m², surrounded by a lush, fairytale-like garden designed by esteemed landscape designer Damian Wendelborn (Hotel Britomart). Future development potential is assured, as the cottage already sits on its own title, ready for redevelopment into a significant new home—without the need for development contributions.
A Home of Timeless Elegance
Beyond its charming street presence—complete with a romantic criss-cross fence, flowering shrubs, and a wraparound veranda—this villa reveals an extraordinary private world. Living areas flow effortlessly to an expansive deck and a totally private secluded garden, creating an inviting atmosphere of calm and intimacy. Mature trees frame the outlook, enhancing the home’s sense of sanctuary - an idyllic spot for al fresco dining or morning coffee, immersed in peaceful greenery.
The moment you step inside, you will be spellbound by its unique atmosphere. The three spacious ground-floor living rooms, bathed in natural light, are interconnected, creating an effortless flow like a fresh breeze of air. Embodying the true essence of living, these rooms exude calm and intimacy, with the garden's mature trees gracefully providing an even greater sense of home and privacy.
At the heart of the home, the state-of-the-art Poliform kitchen (by Studio Italia) features marble benchtops and premium Miele appliances—a refined culinary oasis. A separate office or fourth bedroom, along with a guest bathroom and laundry, complete the ground floor.
Upstairs, three well-appointed bedrooms offer serene retreats, with the master suite privately positioned away from the children’s rooms.
A glazed bridge connects the villa to the two-bedroom cottage—ideal for extended family, guests, or rental income.
Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living
Designed for effortless entertaining, the villa opens onto an expansive ‘floating’ private deck and garden oasis, perfect for al fresco dining or morning coffee in the dappled sunlight. Resource consent is in effect for two carports, driveways, and a swimming pool.
Smart Living at Its Finest
This home is fully equipped with top-of-the-line Crestron home automation—allowing control of lighting, underfloor heating, fans, security, cameras, and sound via keypad, touchscreen, or remotely from your phone anywhere in the world.
Location
Situated in sought-after Herne Bay, with a newly renovated walking and cycling path to Cox’s Bay Reserve (with its walking tracks, playground, sports fields and tennis club) at the end of the road. Two early childcare centers, Bayfield School and another tennis club at the top of the road, Ponsonby Intermediate nearby. Herne Bay’s boutique shops, cafes, restaurants, and supermarkets (Farro & two Woolworths) are all within walking distance.
Though the owners are 100% committed to moving on, they will deeply miss their labor of love and the lifestyle this home offers.
Property Specifications:
• Total land area: 736m² across two Freehold cross-lease titles
• Villa: 4 bedrooms (or study), 2 bathrooms, guest toilet, separate laundry, 2 living rooms, dining area, rear deck, covered side deck, and front return verand
• Cottage: 2 bedrooms, 1 family bathroom, kitchen/living area
• Combined CV (2021): $4.5M
• Combined ACC Rates (2024/2025): $11,049 p.a.
• School zones: Bayfield Primary, Ponsonby Intermediate, Western Springs College, Auckland Girls’ Grammar
• Vehicle Access: Two legally established vehicle crossings
• Resource Consent: In effect for 2 carports, 2 driveways, and a swimming pool
Design Credits:
• Landscape Design: Damian Wendelborn
• Architecture & Interior Design: Young+Richards+ www.youngrichards.com (currently shortlisted for ‘Home of the Year 2025’ for their project ‘Berowald Place’)
• Builder: Niche Construction
• Photography: David Straight
A rare and remarkable offering—contact us today to experience this unique home for yourself.