Property report: Arch Hill - Quaint enclave of value

Arch Hill. Photo / Michelle Hyslop

Turn-of-the-century workingman's cottages offer charm in the shadow of the city, writes Graham Hepburn.

Tucked down on the slopes of Newton Gully away from the bustle of Great North Rd, Arch Hill is a quiet part of Auckland's inner city - until you try to build a large DIY store in the neighbourhood.

Residents have kicked up a huge fuss about Bunnings' plans to build a store on Great North Rd between Bond St, King St and Dean St.

And it's not hard to see why if you have ever tried to negotiate the suburb's narrow, hilly streets in your car. It is difficult enough without having to face car and truck traffic generated by a major hardware chain.

Auckland Council approved Bunnings' plans, but residents have won concessions on noise, traffic management and trading hours to minimise the impact of a large store on a neighbourhood comprising mostly small, wooden houses on tight sites.

Most of the houses date from around the turn of the 20th century after the subdivision of Arch Hill farm, which occupied about 30ha in the late 1800s. Around that time a brickworks and "night soil" depots were in the area.

An intensive period of development - predominantly construction of villas and workers cottages - meant that Arch Hill was densely populated by the early 1900s.

Some cottages have been replaced in more recent times by light industrial buildings and apartment developments along the ridge.

Before the Northwestern Motorway cut through the gully, Arch Hill's roads connected with those of Kingsland. These days, Bond St is the main thoroughfare.

Although the suburb is south-facing over the motorway, its central location, and particularly its proximity to the urban delights of Ponsonby, Grey Lynn and Kingsland, has made it popular with young professionals and families.

Sandy Dowdle, of Custom Residential, says, "While it has all the benefits of the more expensive areas of Grey Lynn, it represents very good value, with prices averaging around $1 million, well below the average prices in neighbouring areas. The character homes are popular with first-home buyers looking to add value, and who do not want modern apartment-style living. Given the performance of the area over the past five to six years, those with an eye for investment are keen to purchase in the area."

Bernadette Morrison, of Bayleys, adds: "With the lift in sales values in Auckland over the past 24 months, Arch Hill offers a more affordable entry into the inner city suburbs. According to sales statistics released by the REINZ, the median sale price recorded in 2014 for Arch Hill was $640,000, compared to its neighbouring suburb Grey Lynn with a median sale price of $957,500. The primary reason for the difference is the high proportion of apartment sales in the area.

However, Arch Hill is also well known for its character early-century villas and workingman's cottages. There is a unique vibe to the area. Its wide range of amenities, close proximity to the bars, cafes and restaurants of Kingsland, Eden Terrace, Ponsonby and Grey Lynn along with easy access to K Rd and the CBD, Arch Hill offers a sought-after lifestyle choice."

One of the attractions for families with young children is the friendly Newton Central School.