Epsom

BY CHARLOTTE COSSAR

Epsom has always been one of Auckland's most prestigious suburbs - known for its beautiful historic homes, famous residents and being close to most of the top schools.

Flanked by two of Auckland's largest parks - Auckland Domain and One Tree Hill/Cornwall Park - the area has many large villas and bungalows on big sections offering families the perfect environment in which to live. The area was mainly settled around the turn of last century, and although many of the homes are from this era there are pockets of new townhouses enjoying the pretty tree-lined roads and abundant greenery.

With good access to the motorways as well as major arterial roads, travelling to and from Epsom is a breeze - although Manukau Rd and Gillies Ave can get clogged at times, but at least the scenery is pretty!

The makeup of residents has changed remarkably in recent years with a strong Asian community making the area their home. Many of the long-standing families who have lived in the area for decades have moved on - with many of their homesteads being bowled and replaced with modern townhouses - finding the upkeep of their grounds costly and time-consuming. There are also many families who live in the area, especially those with secondary school-age children. The close proximity to many private and public schools makes Epsom an ideal choice for parents not wanting to travel too far for the school round. And occasionally, some children will even walk to school.

To buy in this area you have to be quick and have a bit of cash, but if schools and location are top of your list of priorities, this is a good area to be in.

AMENITIES

An established area, Epsom residents want for nothing. Newmarket, the city and the new and improved St Lukes shopping centre are nearby, as are the lovely villages of Mt Eden and Greenwoods Corner.

Eateries abound in Mt Eden, Newmarket and Remuera so going down the road for a slap-up meal is often the order of the evening. However, if you prefer to stay indoors on these chilly winter nights Epsom boasts the best fish and chip shop.

SCHOOLS

Where do you start? The area is close to a number of primary, intermediate and secondary schools, including Epsom Normal, Maungawhau School, Epsom Primary, Kohia Terrace School, Auckland Normal Intermediate, Auckland Grammar, Epsom Girls Grammar, Diocesan School for Girls, St Cuthberts College and St Peters College.

HOUSE PRICES

Old style homes on large sections usually sell for more than $750,000, units from $285,000 plus, large townhouses from $800,000 and terrace-style townhouses from $580,000.

The whole area is sought after, although many people prefer to live off the main roads on the through roads between Manukau Rd and Gilles Ave.