Blockhouse Bay

By CHARLOTTE COSSAR.


Protected in past conflicts because of its waterfront location, Blockhouse Bay is an established area with large, open spaces, a sense of community and great views of Manukau Harbour to Puketutu Island on one side of the suburb and the cityscape on the other.

Eventually gaining its name from fortifications built across the southern end of Auckland from Te Whau to Onehunga, Panmure and Howick, the area was originally called Whau, then Avondale South until 1948 when it officially became known as Blockhouse Bay, although the school was renamed in 1936.

The area is unique in having a suburban feel but still being close to the city, about 15 minutes drive in non-peak hour traffic, and people move here because it is considered a great place to raise a family, it is close to good shopping facilities and the local schools have good reputations.

Well known for its large boat sculpture - The Spirit of Blockhouse Bay - it is also handy to pleasant beaches and the Waitakere Ranges.

WHO LIVES HERE?

Traditionally the area was a suburb with mainly average family-oriented New Zealanders. Now, it is a lot more cosmopolitan and is home to a mix of nationalities, including Fijian Indians and Asian immigrants. Popular with first-home buyers and investors, the area has many young families who move to the area for its numerous schools. Many of the owner-occupiers are in the 30-plus age group and consider Blockhouse Bay a good stepping stone to trade up to suburbs closer to the city.

AMENITIES

Local sporting amenities include excellent recreational parks, a skateboard park, ice skating rink, The Portage Trust Tennis Centre in Rathlin St (indoor and outdoor), the Blockhouse Bay Boat Club, which is being refurbished, men's and women's bowling clubs and rugby clubs.

For the sports challenged, there is a library in the main street, market days, music in the park events, a large Santa parade and street party for the kids, and carols in the park for lubricating the vocal cords.

HOUSE PRICES

There are various properties available in this area, including apartments close to the shops and cafes, single-level units, three-bedroom family properties and homes with stunning sea views.

Prices range from $180,000 to around $500,000 or $600,000 for more upmarket properties. In general, for a family home you can expect to pay from $250,000, for a unit from $120,000 and for a townhouse from $250,000.