Bucklands Beach

Bucklands Beach Including Eastern Beach

Families who appreciate being near the sea have long gravitated to this area. They also appreciate the good schooling available and, to a certain extent, the relative isolation of the peninsula.

While many properties are the preserve of the wealthy, there is also a range of more affordable properties, which means a good mix in the population. The residents here are predominantly Pakeha and Asian.

Because the area has been developed over many decades, there is no such thing as a typical style of house. Many homes, though, are large and set on lovingly landscaped sections.

Bucklands Beach and Eastern Beach occupy a spectacular little peninsula that reaches as far north as St Heliers. These suburbs feel like any established eastern suburb with pleasant family homes and leafy streets. It's a very settled place, with people staying put because they love the place so much.

Amenities There is no shortage of good educational institutions here which is a major drawcard for families. Waimokia School is a special needs primary.

Macleans College is the big cheese among high schools, and being in zone means a lot to people (and to the house prices they pay).

Small shopping centres dot the peninsula, but for anything major you need to venture further afield to Highland Park, Howick, Pakuranga or Botany Downs. They're also the places to head for when you want to dine out.

The Howick Golf Course at Musick Pt is a treat, even if you have no interest in golf. Right at the tip of the peninsula at Musick Pt is a wonderful art deco building, built in 1939 as a base for marine radio communications and now leased by amateur radio enthusiasts.

Yachties are well served of course, with the Bucklands Beach Yacht Club and the Half Moon Bay Marina, as well as public boat ramps at both Bucklands and Eastern Beach.

The latter has a ski lane, picnic area and children's playground.

There are tennis clubs and, not far away, the various delights of Lloyd Elsmore Park in Pakuranga.

There are several beach-themed restaurants in Eastern Beach, and a plethora of ethnic eateries in other nearby eastern suburbs.

Trends Bucklands Beach is seeing a lot of redevelopment. Cliff-top homes, in particular, are being revamped and are soaring in value thanks to those unbeatable sea views. Anything with sea views (and Macleans College zoning) is seen as a great investment.

Rental and investment The range of rental prices is huge, affected by such factors as location, view, age and quality of construction.

Best streets The Parade and Clovelly Road are the places to be if you've got big money to spend on a huge view.