Glendowie

Glendowie has assumed prominence as one of Auckland's more desirable settings - and when one considers what this delightful stretch of the city's landscape has to offer, it is not hard to see why.

With the Treaty of Waitangi being signed at Karaka Bay in the 1840s, an historical significance for the suburb was established. However, contemporary Glendowie evolved through the 1920s after George Riddell created a loop road with residential lots on the road and small rural blocks in the centre of the loop.

Initially, the depressed times saw few sections sell, so the new owner of the rural lots combined them into a golf course over the area now known as Churchill Park.

The open park environs have been fiercely protected by subsequent residents and this has curtailed any subdivisions from occurring. Churchill Park remains with many community facilities - and the open parkland has definitely added to the charm of the suburb. The enjoyable walks through urban farmland - as well as the somewhat more energetic orienteering escapades - combine to create a rural experience within an urban setting.

Blackberry gathering in the height of summer is a fond childhood memory of many long-term residents. When the Glendowie landfill was closed, the flat park adjoining the Tahuna Torea bird sanctuary on the sandspit was created. This site is further noted as a location of historical significance, as it was a place where early Maori inhabitants stopped on the way up the Tamaki River before crossing the narrow land mass to the west coast.

Today, Glendowie is an appealing destination close to the maritime suburbs of St Heliers and Kohimarama, yet it's a possibly more affordable option for those wanting to enjoy the waterfront lifestyle. The affordability tag should not be overstated though, as the prices of properties with sea views are comparable with those anywhere else in the greater city surrounds. The waterfront drive to the CBD is easily accessible and provides a pleasant alternative to clogged motorways and suburban streets for morning commuters.

Excellent educational facilities are found at Glendowie and Churchill Park Primary Schools - as well as the highly rated Glendowie and Sacred Heart Colleges - and other recreational amenities are not in short supply. There is a popular bowling club and a tennis club close to Churchill Park. There are also facilities for Boy Scouts and Girl Guides, confirming that the suburb is not merely for empty nesters. A Probus Club is also available in the suburb, as well as pre-schools, play centres and kindergartens.

The beaches of Glendowie tend to be more private than those of St Heliers and Kohimarama. Karaka Bay is popular with local residents, as well as being a mooring spot for keel yachts and a launching pad for recreational anglers and board sailors. The trek around the Glendowie bays between the Glendowie Yacht Club and Ladies Bay is well worth a go at low tide.

Units in the area may be purchased from upwards of $300,000, a modest home on a full section will sell from around the $500,000 mark, and luxury homes on the waterfront will sell in the millions.