Country: Natural beauty in Waimauku

By CEDRIC GRAY

Situated between Waimauku and Muriwai beach, every corner of Brinkley is spiced with natural beauty.

There is nothing formal about the 4 ha property. Lined with mature trees and post-and-rail fencing, the attractive driveway from Taiapa Rd dissects two large paddocks, which are well sheltered and in excellent pasture.

The Brinkley Suffolk sheep usually graze here. At the moment, however, they are grazing on the orchard floor to the rear of the cute kauri villa, where sheep and visitors alike must take care not to disturb the beautiful spring bulbs that are in full bloom.

The orchard has been here for 50 years or more, and the pears, apples and plums are showing no sign of giving up the ghost. The fruit trees share the well-fenced rolling pasture with several species of native and exotic trees.

The area is further beautified by a fast-flowing, fresh water stream and pumice banks where kingfishers nest regularly. Bridges cross the stream in two places to allow easy access to the sheltered picnic and children's play areas.

Owners Liz and David Jones-Parry have lived at Brinkley for nine years and are quick to admit that they inherited most of the property's natural beauty from the previous owner. The selection of trees and shrubs provide year-round colour and contrast, and attract a wide variety of native birdlife.

The 80-year-old villa retains many of the treasures of its earlier days, as well as modern touches such as the delightful open-plan living area and the semi-enclosed barbecue area on the wrap-around veranda.

Other features include three generous bedrooms, polished kauri floors in the hallway, an elegant formal lounge, and high ceilings and classic-style windows throughout the house.

The 125 sq m barn and workshop has three-phase power and a toilet, offering the potential for a cottage industry or conversion into living accommodation.

David breeds golden pheasants in the large aviary and free-range poultry has the run of the smaller paddocks near the house.

The property, at Taiapa Rd, Waimauku, will be auctioned on site by Harcourts, Kumeu, on October 20. Phone Simon Spiller on 412 7666 for listing details.