Glen Eden

By CHARLOTTE COSSAR.

A favourite for first-home buyers or people wanting to live closer to the country and west coast beaches, Glen Eden is a suburb that retains its village atmosphere.

Known as Waikumete before its name change in 1922, the area has a long history dating back to pioneering families who ran businesses producing almost everything.

One of the last suburbs before the Waitakere Ranges, the area was originally established around the railway station, but its boundaries have expanded due to recent developments. These have mainly replaced the many orchards in the area, although some do remain. However, to retain the natural bush surrounds, there are restrictions on the size and scope of these developments.

Glen Eden also has a share of older homes in streets established in the 1920s. These include transitional villas, bungalows and established weatherboard homes, which are a testament to Glen Eden's growth period in the 1950s and 1960s.

Bordered by Oratia, this is a family suburb with a big heart, and a good choice for those wanting reasonably priced real estate close to rugged beaches and glorious bush.

And as one real estate agent puts it: "Glen Eden is a great place to market properties as you are dealing with ordinary Westies who are proud of the area."

AMENITIES

Apart from the great cafes and restaurants in nearby Titirangi, there are other eateries and shops at Lynnmall, Kelston and West City shopping centres.

And green areas are not lacking, either. Of course, there are the Waitakere Ranges if you are keen on a hike or bush walk, but also in the area are large parks, including Ceramco Park and Parrs Park.

TRANSPORT

Commuting to the city and Newmarket is easy. A train service runs regularly, and commuters can now enjoy the refurbished station while waiting for their transport to arrive.

Also, if you pick your times, the North Western motorway isn't as bad as people have you believe! This trip can take as little as 15 to 20 minutes.

HOUSING

The area is very popular with people wanting to buy in the low to middle price range, although there are some properties in the high price range. This means that the type of resident attracted to the area varies greatly in age and ethnicity.

There are all types of residential properties, from one-bedroom home units to large houses on reasonably sized sections. The age of the home also varies from new to 100 years old.

Generally, a unit will cost between $130,000 and $160,000, and a three-to-four-bedroom home (depending on the location) between $145,000 and $270,000.

And the contour of the land allows many homes to have great views.