$3.6 million penthouse for sale

One of Auckland's flashest penthouses is expected to sell for millions at auction next month.

The buyer of the $3.6 million-valued home at the Shangri-La block on Jervois Rd, Herne Bay, will be neighbours with film director Lee Tamahori and Rich Lister Alan Gibbs, who both own apartments in the plush building.

The 472sq m home spreads over two levels, and features 360-degree views of Auckland, three bedrooms, an upstairs entertainment area and three parking spaces.

Bayleys agent Marnie Adams said the property was being auctioned on May 14 by a "realistic vendor" and provided a great opportunity for someone looking to live the high life.

"It's such an iconic building and it's really rare for things like this to pop up," she said.

The tower sparked controversy among locals when it was built nearly 20 years ago for being the only high-rise in the older, Victorian-style suburb.

An Auckland architecture expert said the building heralded the beginning of luxury high-rises apartments in the city and was heavily criticised. "It was a high-rise going into the city centre and it was controversial.

"A lot of residents and architects protested against it because it was at the time when there was a two-storey limit on houses.

"Its funky, white modern style didn't fit into the area. Locals were annoyed."