Kerikeri: Seaside splendour

By CHARLOTTE COSSAR.

Paradise is the only way to describe this exceptional slice of heaven nestled between two river mouths in Kerikeri.

With awe-inspiring views across Kerikeri Inlet to Cape Brett, it is not hard to understand why Judy and Terry Barrett fell in love with this property when they bought it about 10 years ago.

At the time, the large 4000-plus sq m section was graced by an old home that had seen better days. However, Terry was determined to fulfil a life-long dream of having a property with its own jetty and incredible views.

Fitting the bill perfectly, the couple decided that the old house had to go to be replaced by this capacious home designed for the fabulous lifestyle enjoyed by residents of this beautiful part of New Zealand.

Employing architect Martyn Evans to create their lifestyle abode prevailed in a generous home with large open-plan living areas opening to balconies, three bedrooms, a large study, sauna, in-ground swimming pool complex and the added bonus of a self-contained, one-bedroom flat.

Although the flat was already there, Judy and Terry have refurbished and redecorated to bring it up to the same exceptional standard prevalent throughout the main home.

Marking the entrance to the home is a tiled portico opening through double doors to a hallway lined in Hinuera stone leading to the living areas.

Off to one side is a large glass-roofed conservatory affording loads of sunlight and doubles as the perfect sleeping place for the Barretts' cat, says Terry.

Judy says that the main inspiration behind the family and kitchen area was to create a space that was large and open-plan. "We live in this area. It looks out to Cape and it works really well."

The kitchen - a culinary whizz's delight - is home to large benches, a scullery that is complete with butler's sink and dishwasher and a lengthy island ideal for casual breakfasts.

With an easy flow, this area opens to the dining area, which in turn leads to a generous terrace ideally positioned to enjoy long summer evenings and fabulous al fresco entertaining.

Also affording the luxury of space is the sitting room. A welcoming area with an open fireplace, winter evening are always cosy. Also on this level is a guest bedroom with a semi en suite.

Upstairs is the master bedroom with its own juliet balcony and another large bedroom that Judy refers to as the dormitory. Ideal for children, it features exposed beams and enjoys the same views to the Cape as the master bedroom and the office on the lower level - although there are very few rooms in the house that don't enjoy these spectacular vistas.

On the lower level is another large room, a sauna with an impressive shower and a large stainless-steel bench where Terry prepares the freshly caught fish. Says Judy: "This area is wonderful and it means that Terry doesn't muck my kitchen up."

Outside, Judy has cleverly landscaped the gardens. Paths lead to hidden havens planted with natives and splashes of colour provided by orchards, bromeliads and fuschias. Meandering down a beautiful garden pathway, a substantial jetty (serviced by both power and water) is large enough to moor fairly sizeable craft.

A versatile home that can be arranged to suit various needs, this stunning seaside resort-style home is definitely a lifestyler's dream.

Vital Statistics

ADDRESS: 112 Riverview Rd, Kerikeri.

FEATURES: Grand and substantial residence with a separate self-contained flat and jaw-dropping sea views across Kerikeri Inlet to Cape Brett; in-ground pool; landscaped grounds; private jetty serviced by power and water.

SIZE: Land area 4505sq m.

PRICE: Around $2 million.

AGENT: Sandra Peters and Dail Bidois, Waterfront Specialists, Bayleys, Kerikeri. Ph 09 407 9221 bus; Sandra 09 407 7268 ah; 027 4388 177 mob; Dail 09 407 9302; 021 451 301 mob.