Kumeu: Big and beautiful

This delightful and generous family home in Kumeu invites new owners to enjoy the benefits of rural living. By CEDRIC GRAY.

Kathryn Morris says she couldn't believe her luck when she bought her 4.049ha property in Dysart Lane, Kumeu, 12 years ago. The vendors were a Canadian couple about to return to their homeland, and on her first visit Kathryn says she knew it had everything a growing family wanted.

Dysart Lane, 3km west of the township, is part of a stunning rural region some describe as "Kumeu's dress circle". There are quality units of similar size and a couple of flourishing vineyards. Two recently established restaurants are within walking distance.

Most of the units in the lane are protected by mature shelter belts, which - in tandem with other strategic planting - enhance the environment. The land is well-drained and fertile.

After much juggling with the initials of family names, Kathryn named the property Brekadnik Manor - the name prominently displayed outside the monitored security gateway. A lovely sealed driveway, lined by post-and-rail fences and magnolias, leads to the executive-style house partly built by the previous owner.

"It was interesting and exciting to be able to add the finishing touches," Kathryn says.

The 500sq m house on one level lends itself as much to spacious family living as it does to indoor-outdoor living on a grand scale. There are six bedrooms, four of which are in their own accommodation wing where the facilities include a well-appointed bathroom. It would make ideal farmstay accommodation.

The family living and formal lounge areas are big and impressive. They enjoy excellent rural views, especially from the sun-filled, conservatory-style kitchen. Sliding door access to a wide timber deck, which extends along the rear of the house, makes for superb indoor-outdoor entertaining.

A cosy television snug links the kitchen to the sunken lounge where a large brick fireplace and brick surround is a feature. An elaborate bar occupies a separate room, opening to the deck, nearby shadehouse and barbecue area. There is also a large games room and a walk-in wine cellar.

The master bedroom has a luxury en suite and walk-in wardrobe, the room also opening to the outdoors. The two-car garage has access through the laundry to the kitchen, and there is ample parking close to the house.

A self-contained, one-bedroom cottage has its own security monitor from Dysart Lane. It is linked to a large workshop with concrete flooring and roller doors, and to a second building that could easily be converted into a stables complex.

The seven paddocks are well-fenced and in excellent pasture. They are at present grazing a few head of cattle, but would be equally suited to horses or horticulture. Three large water tanks provide ample water. Two smaller paddocks near the driveway house a children's playground and an orchard.

The property will be auctioned by Norwest Real Estate on April 3. Contact Keith Neiderer on 412 8876 for further details.