The property is hidden from the road and surrounded by native bush. As a bonus, in hilly Titirangi, it also has a large, flat, grassed area and decks at the front and rear.
"The house is east-facing and gets sun all day in summer," Kim says.
Inside, is a well-appointed kitchen with large windows -- including a remarkable one that looks right into the native bush at ground level.
"Guests often joke that they expect to see fish swimming past."
Because Kim is left-handed, Steve devised a nifty pantry door feature so it can be opened either way.
The children use the breakfast bar constantly, and when friends visit they perch there with a glass of wine while Kim demonstrates her culinary skills.
The expansive, airy formal living and dining (with Kim's office, or a fourth bedroom to its left) is reached via a small staircase, painstakingly finished with oak strips. "Steve is a perfectionist."
This attention to detail is apparent in the master suite, with picture windows sited to maximise the beautiful bush view. Shutters at the sides are always open in summer. The en suite bathroom is elegant and timeless with a distinct Italian flavour.
"This is another place where Steve got really inspired," Kim says, pointing out the custom-built shelves in the walk-in wardrobe.
Also on this floor is daughter Mikayla's sunny bedroom, with a shuttered skylight, where giant floor to ceiling cupboards hold her girly treasures.
Image 1 of 11: Fifties property nestled in native greenery has been updated in a well-considered, meticulous fashion
The family bathroom has a large, deep bath, and shower space. The toilet is separate and even in here, Steve's creative touch is evident, with wall mounted shelves and a neat little vanity unit.
The laundry is well-planned for efficiency, with a pull-out shelf below the drier, installed so it can be emptied straight into the clothes basket.
Teenage son Jonathan's "boy-cave" bedroom is upstairs and has a built-in bunk unit. It, too has, great views and the room is sunny and bright. Once again, huge cupboards keep clutter out of sight.
"It's still not usually this tidy, though," Kim says.
Much of Steve's work is done out in the huge double garage/workshop, although, when it's fine, the head gardener likes to be outside. The section is close to 2000sq m so there's plenty for him to do.
Kim says the street is a friendly place.
"We're not in each other's pockets, but there's always someone to collect mail or feed cats when people go away."
Titirangi Village is five or so minutes' drive away and the Battersbys have watched it evolve into a truly cosmopolitan meeting place.
"The shops and cafes are great. I often pop out to meet friends for coffee."
The family is moving because this house is practically perfect now. "Our needs are changing and we fancy a new challenge, but we'll be staying in the neighbourhood. We love it here."
