Kumeu

This pretty area at the end of the northwestern motorway offers an exceptional lifestyle combining the best of country living with city comforts. By CHARLOTTE COSSAR.

Only a 20 to 25 minute drive from the CBD, people move to Kumeu for more space, clean air, the lifestyle and a village way of life.

The area originally consisted of blocks of land large enough for farms (mainly horticulture and dairying) and vineyards, but not to the same extent as they do today. However, as Auckland's boundaries expanded, the land was further subdivided into 10- to 50-acre lifestyle blocks, which were sought by "lifestyle buyers", according to local agent Simon Spiller of Harcourts.

He says with the advent of the two-income family, smaller 1ha (two and a half acres) to 2ha (five acre) blocks are becoming increasingly popular, and accordingly the council has re-zoned land to cater for further subdivision. Other areas have been re-zoned for residential lots of approx 1500sq m, which are very appealing to the suburban dweller looking for a bit more space.

WHAT IS THERE TO DO?

The area is unique in that it offers lifestyle living on Auckland's doorstep - it is minutes to west Auckland beaches, three golf courses and, of course, the wineries. Known for its famous wineries, including Kumeu River, Nobilo, Coopers Creek and Matua Valley, weekends can be whittled away spending a relaxing afternoon or day partaking in the divine tipples on offer. Lately, a few smaller boutique wineries have set up and some of which have fantastic cafes, especially Soljans.

Along the road, BeesOnline is another exceptional cafe. A great destination for a family outing, it is well worth the visit.

For those into horses, Kumeu has a large trotting fraternity, including Piri Cameron and Paul Milich, who regularly train on a local track in preparation for racing at Alexandra Park.

One of the country's largest A&P shows is held annually at the showgrounds. A two-day event, it attracts punters from throughout the Auckland region. Also held here are a hot rod show and folk festival.

And, of course, the Kumeu Christmas parade, well known for the wheelbarrow race up the main street.

AMENITIES

Westgate is a 10-minute drive and has movie theatres, bowling alleys, cafes and several major department stores.

However, Kumeu itself has a large array of shops and services and these continue to increase with the demand from the influx of new residents.

With the extension of the northwestern motorway planned, the area can only become more accessible and the recent boom of people wanting to live in the area will continue.

HOUSE PRICES

For a three-bedroom home you can expect to pay up to $400,000, a four-bedroom home up to $450,000, or for a home on about 10 acres up to $800,000. And for an exclusive lifestyle home, it could set you back as much as $3 million. Sought-after areas include those within 3-4km of Kumeu village.