Kohimaramara

This lovely seaside suburb has retained many of its character features giving it a yesteryear charm. By CHARLOTTE COSSAR.

Home by the sea - and a very nice location to boot. Kohimarama is a lovely seaside suburb, with a pretty outlook to Rangitoto Island, which flourishes in summer and thrives in winter.

Between St Heliers and Mission Bay, the area is a peaceful haven away from the bustle of the neighbouring bays but enjoying all the great things they have to offer.

Cafes, restaurants and leisurely walks spring to mind with any of the bay suburbs, but Kohi has a special place in many peoples hearts. A place I enjoyed visiting as a child to watch my brother race his P-class yacht, it hasn't changed a lot.

The lovely trees still line the footpath and across the road homes brimming with character reign supreme. Lying to the north, this area has some of the best real estate in Auckland, and being only a 15-minute drive from the CBD it is the preferred suburb of many discerning buyers - if they can afford the hefty pricetag.

An area that attracts both families and retired people because of its facilities, most people enjoy being able to walk to the waterfront for casual strolls or more energetic runs. And it's hard to miss the vibrancy of the area, especially during summer with the numerous events, including food and wine festivals, concerts, gala days, carols by candlelight and fireworks displays.

Just back from the main drag, Tamaki Dr, is Madills Farm, most commonly known for being an after venue for Around the Bays. A great sporting facility, it also has a great play area for children, walking tracks and petanque court.

With many of Kohi's homes having views, the area spans from Tamaki Dr back to Kohimarama Rd.

FACILITIES

The sports complex next to Selwyn College is the venue for international and national competitions, including netball, baseball, gymnastics, as well as other cultural and community activities.

Serviced by supermarkets at Eastridge shopping complex, Glen Innes, and the soon to be built Foodtown on Quay St, and boutique shops at St Heliers, the area itself has local dairies, cafes and restaurants and shopping strips on Melanesia Rd and Kepa Rd.

SCHOOLS

The schools for the area are Kohimarama School, St Thomas's Primary School and Selwyn Colllege. All of these schools are sought after and are a big plus for people buying in the area.

HOUSE PRICES

Prices range from about $400,000 for a two-bedroom unit to in excess of $2 million for a waterfront property on Tamaki Dr.