Arch Hill

CHARLOTTE COSSAR drops in on this spirited and energetic corner of Auckland.

Close to Auckland's city centre, Arch Hill is no longer an underrated afterthought. Now, it is a sought-after area by young couples and professionals, fondly known as the "arty set", who want to live in the inner city but find north
of Great North Rd a bit out of their price range.

An older suburb, Arch Hill has many villas and bungalows with the odd new house or block of flats thrown into the mix.

Everything in Arch Hill tends to be a bit smaller than its neighbour, Grey Lynn. Similar in style and flavour, Arch Hill has narrower streets and small homes, especially the villas and cottages.

Although most properties don't have off-street parking, this doesn't seem to deter the eager buyers ready to snap up any home that comes on the market. Generally, people buy here with a view to upgrading to Grey Lynn or Westmere, because you can still walk to Ponsonby, Kingsland and the city, and it is handy to motorway access.

With approximately 235 homes in the area, this small community is thriving and friendly.

WHAT ARE THE HOMES LIKE?

The homes are mostly 100-year-old, three-bedroom villas and cottage villas made of kauri. Intermixed with these are small pockets of replica homes that have been built in the past 15 years to maintain the quaint, old world feel of the area.

The good thing about Arch Hill is there are still a lot of do-ups to be found, unlike its trendy neighbours. A popular address is Cooper St, which is preserved under heritage status.

HOUSE PRICES

Prices range from $300,000 to about $500,000, with a three-bedroom bungalow
costing between $340,000 and $400,000, depending on position, size and condition.

WHAT IS THERE TO DO?

There are plenty of parks and reserves in Arch Hill's surrounding suburbs, with many being by the sea. Close by is Grey Lynn Park, which has a toddler pool and sports grounds. Also only a stone's throw away is the Pt Chevalier Park and beach. The openness of the park and plenty of parking make this an ideal place to while away an afternoon or take the dog for a walk.

Just down the hill are Western Springs, Motat and Auckland Zoo, all of which offer a great day's activities.

If you are more into retail therapy, the Grey Lynn strip offers boutique clothes shops, organic eateries and great cafes. And Queen St is only a 10-minute drive away with St Lukes and Newmarket about 15.

WHY DO PEOPLE LIVE HERE?

Arch Hill has spunk, spirit and tenacity. These strong characteristics and its central location make it an ideal area for people who want to be in the thick of it all and live in character-filled digs without the huge price tag.