5 Jim Rhind Place, Pahurehure, Auckland. Photo / Ted Baghurst
5 Jim Rhind Place, Pahurehure, Auckland. Photo / Ted Baghurst
When Kerry and Pam Burnside first saw their Pahurehure home 14 years ago, it's fair to say that they were slightly underwhelmed.
"It looked pretty ordinary, really, from the street and it wasn't until we got inside that we realised what a fantastic - and absolutely enormous - two-level find we'd stumbled upon," says Pam.
The house at that point, was 12 or so years old, and had obviously had a bit of a rough ride. However, the possibilities it offered were considerable. Having secured the property, the pair wasted no time in getting to work.
"Our children had left home by then so this was all completely ours, and we did everything to the highest standard," says Kerry.
On the upper level, they rearranged the layout so the lounge was semi-separate from the huge kitchen and dining space. The kitchen is modern with a self-cleaning oven, says Pam, who loves cooking.
"I'll be getting one of those straight away at our new home," she says.
With its extensive granite benchtop, there's plenty of room for family and friends to chat while the cook is working.
The adjacent dining space has the bonus of a bar with a fridge. Kerry and Pam like a nice glass of wine or a beer so they've appreciated this feature - especially when entertaining.
Also on this level are the master bedroom with walk-through wardrobe and en suite, a guest toilet and another smaller, sunny bedroom.
5 Jim Rhind Place, Pahurehure, Auckland. Photo / Ted Baghurst
While this feels like a generously sized house so far, the lower level is just as big again. There are two double bedrooms, one of which Pam and her daughter use as their office.
When grandchildren visit, they are given the run of downstairs. This also has a family bathroom and a second lounge which opens onto the patio, with spa pool, outside, and the lawn beyond.
At the other end, the double garage is accessed internally and has a little courtyard outside it, where Pam, a keen gardener, grows flowers and vegetables with considerable success while Kerry has two sheds.
With all these places to sit, work or sleep, the Burnsides' favourite room is an outdoor one - the big balcony upstairs.
5 Jim Rhind Place, Pahurehure, Auckland. Photo / Ted Baghurst
They can relax here with a drink and admire the wonderful view, which as well as showcasing their own well-kept garden also takes in the inlet reserve behind.
"It makes you feel as if the section is so much bigger than it actually is," says Pam.
With its slate floor, clear blinds and heaters, this north-facing spot can be enjoyed year-round and that's exactly what happens.
"I'm out here barbecuing regularly, even in winter," says Kerry.
5 Jim Rhind Place, Pahurehure, Auckland. Photo / Ted Baghurst
Now that Kerry has retired, he and Pam have decided to move somewhere new simply because they feel like a change. But they're adamant it won't be for downsizing purposes.
