Mangere

Proud of their own bridge, Mangere residents enjoy a vibrant suburb with its own character. CHARLOTTE COSSAR reports.

Rich in cultural diversity, Mangere is home to many ethnic groups. Its colourful atmosphere is fuelled by local Tongan, Samoan, Niuean, Cook Islands, Maori, Irish, English, Finnish and Scottish residents.

The area is full of young people, mainly under the age of 35, but elderly residents who have lived in the area most of their lives also make Mangere their home.

A sporting area, Mangere has a swimming pool and recreation centre in the town centre, netball courts in Brader Dr and many reserves and parks.

This makes it a popular area with families, as do the many schools in the area, including two colleges and several primaries and intermediates.

Every Saturday morning, many Mangere residents, as well as those in nearby areas, rise early to make the most of the weekend market, held in the town centre. This is a great event not to be missed - especially the bargains to be had.

The most sought-after locations are in and around Wickman Way, Tennessee Ave, the Garus Ave area and the new subdivisions. These include Peninsula Park, off Massey Rd, Parkwood Estate, off Robertson Rd, and the development off Tidal Rd.

Being close to the airport, motorway, shopping centres and the industrial area, Mangere is an affordable location for young families, couples and singles.

For a two-bedroom unit you could expect to pay about $100,000, three-bedroom homes are generally priced from $140,000 and for a four-bedroom home you will pay from $160,000.

Many residents enjoy the area so much that they buy and sell within the area regularly, so the market is always buoyant and moving. Also, residents from Papatoetoe and Manukau find Mangere appealing and often relocate.

Mangere Bridge

Referring to living at The Bridge doesn't necessarily mean residents who overlook the Auckland Harbour Bridge. On the opposite side of town, residents in Mangere Bridge talk proudly of living by their own bridge.

Named after the original bridge, built in 1874, the area has a village-style atmosphere and comprises about 3000 homes.

The new bridge, which opened in 1983, makes the city a lot more accessible for Mangere residents. The trip takes about 20 minutes.

Here, the popular street Kiwi Esplanade has million-dollar views to the city and Sky Tower. The price tags for these homes are around the $400,000 mark, whereas homes throughout the area start at less than $200,000.