KEY POINTS:
APARTMENT 1405,
SCENE TWO,
18 BEACH ROAD,
AUCKLAND CITY
An apartment on the waterfront in the CBD has been a perfect holiday base for obstetrician Adrian Kwok, who spends most of the year in Sydney.
"We love New Zealand and this has been a great place to stay when we're over there."
He bought the Scene Two apartment off the plan about three years ago, impressed with the location and design of the building.
"It's so central, it's close to transport, the buses, trains and the supermarket for supplies for the apartment."
Unlike some units that can feel a bit like a large box, this home is laid out through the breadth of the building. The foyer opens up to a hallway, with the three bedrooms to the left, and the kitchen and living areas to the right.
The master bedroom is spacious, with a private deck and views over the city, up to the High Court. Light pours into its en suite through a pane of white glass in the wall.
The third bedroom is used as an office but could serve as a child's bedroom. It shares the balcony with the master.
"It's a great building," Adrian says. "It's new, modern and has a good atmosphere."
The apartment is soundproof, which makes it easy to sleep even if you are operating on another time zone.
As you head down the hall towards the other side of the home, the bathroom is off to the left. It is huge by apartment standards, even fitting in a bath. Light brown tiles give it a luxurious feel.
The kitchen is modern and well laid-out, with the fridge neatly concealed in a cupboard, and a moveable island. Lots of drawers and storage space mean it won't be the kind of workspace you want to hide away. The large living area seems perfectly designed for entertaining. It flows on to another bigger deck with views over the harbour, to Devonport and Rangitoto Island, and right round to the eastern bays of the city. From the outdoor table, you can watch containers being unloaded at the wharf and liners pulling into port. Look over the edge of the balcony and you can see the residents' communal barbecue area and tennis court. The building also has a pool and gym.
Adrian is now looking for something a bit bigger to act as his holiday home.
"The apartment has really served its purpose. We might look for something in the South Island, closer to the ski fields."
He suggests it would be great for a small family, or a professional couple, because of its size. There's lots of light and space to stretch out in and its elegant, funky design will appeal to a wide range of people.
It is decorated in neutral colours, so the new owners could make their mark with splashes of brighter hues, or interesting furniture.
Adrian has not had to do any maintenance but has put in an air-conditioner.