Country living's catch of the day

Full of potential, this property lapping the banks of the Kaipara River offers abundant opportunities for water lovers. By CEDRIC GRAY.

A 2ha property on the banks of the Kaipara River, north of Helensville, is in need of tender loving care.

Helensville business Mr van Duyn lived "in the house on the river" for 25 years but is now ready to move on.

The house is more than 100 years old and was transported by road to its riverside site in the early 1980s.

In recent years, it has been joined by a cluster of other buildings, including an adjacent cottage of two bedrooms and a nearby three-bedroom unit.

The river forms one boundary, flowing lazily a couple of metres below the house towards the Kaipara Harbour.

The small charter fishing fleet based in Helensville plies these waters and the river is a popular playground for water skier and kayakers.

Mr van Duyn says flounder netting is lucrative, with occasional runs of mullet and kahawai.

Neil Schierning of LJ Hooker Real Estate, Helensville, agrees that the house is in need of restoration but says it is an ideal project for a boating or fishing club.

"It would make an excellent clubroom," he says. "The property has riparian rights to the river, with quick, direct access to some of the best fishing grounds in the region."

Mr van Duyn says between $20,000 and $30,000 would be required to repair a jetty near the house. A slipway, big enough to accommodate vessels of more than 25 metres, is also in need of repair.

The house has two double bedrooms, a large lounge area, central bathroom, and a small kitchen. There are impressive views from a full-length veranda.

The property is in average pasture, with sufficient grazing for two or three ponies.

The three-bedroom unit was tenanted and it is estimated the property could generate a weekly rental of about $500.

The asking price is $380,000. For further details, phone Neil on 09 420 8623.