The ultimate waterfront property ... but there's a catch

Reporter & Deputy Head of News·NZ Herald·

13 Oct, 2015 04:00 PM2 mins to read

Waterfront, 'studio' maimai near Wellsford.

It's being marketed as the ultimate waterfront property - but its open plan, "minimalist" design comes with a catch.

A lakeside, "studio" maimai has hit the market north of Auckland and, marketed as "paradise for ducks and families", the eco-friendly abode has stunning sunsets and views across the water, and comes with great indoor-outdoor flow.

But Bayleys agent John Barnett admits the ramshackle duck hunter's hide - built from corrugated iron and draped with camo rope - is "pre-loved" and can be draughty in winter.

• Click here to take a virtual tour of the duck hunter's haven

He said there had been no weathertightness reports issued for the property but potential buyers were welcome to commission a registered building inspection.

"It is a one-room maimai. It has a seat. It has a window looking out across the water. If you were in Omaha a view like that would cost you a lot of money and you wouldn't be this close to the water."

The 5.3ha property has a CV of $255,000. It is being sold by auction later this month as a game bird lover's dream - complete with 1ha lake and abundant bird life - or rural development opportunity.

Located "a short waddle" from Wellsford, near Prictor Rd, and within an hour of downtown Auckland, the lifestyle property features pasture to run farm animals and native bush.

"Looking to land somewhere to spread your wings and not ruffle your neighbour's feathers?" marketing material asks. "Whether you are a duck lover, duck hunter or family looking for somewhere special to splash down, this is a must-inspect."

Mr Barnett said the current owner, who was retiring, owned the neighbouring dairy farm.

The property had "ducks for Africa", including mallard and paradise varieties, along with Canadian geese, swans, and pukeko.