Northcote

By CHARLOTTE COSSAR.

Northcote is a delightful gem of a suburb, practically the first exit after the bridge travelling north. Merely a stone's throw from the centre of Auckland, it is often so near yet so far for morning commuters caught in peak hour traffic eyeing that elusive half gap into the harbour bridge flow. There are alternatives for CBD employees though in the shape of the ferry, and with the benefits of living in the suburb of Northcote, that seems an attractive option.

Buyers in search of character villas and historic masterpieces - even if in need of renovation - should consider Northcote as a first port of call in locating that essential property. A classic peninsula suburb, the housing stock ranges from immortal turn-of-the-century character villas and later bungalows in Northcote Point through to contemporary family homes and near-new apartments in the vibrant, multicultural heart of Northcote itself.

Bordered by the fashionable suburbs of Birkenhead and Chatswood, Northcote is also close to other desirable areas, such as Takapuna and Devonport. Buyers excluded from Parnell, Ponsonby, Herne Bay and Devonport have found Northcote Point an ideal choice, however this suburb is hardly a bargain basement alternative. The character homes on Northcote Point are approaching, and some are definitely exceeding, $1 million.

Typical examples of these character homes for sale in Northcote Point include large turn-of-the-century clifftop kauri villas. Such homes embrace a minimum of four to five bedrooms, inclusive of additional rooms for a study or extra living area. The views across the harbour towards the city are immaculate. Another positive is the predominantly large size of the sections - often more than 850sq m - making the location ideal for families.

Northcote itself also includes many character-filled villas and bungalows but also has a vast range of modern family homes and townhouses dating predominantly from the 1970s. These homes range in price anywhere from the $350,000s up for a minimum three-bedroom home on a full site, but other homes - especially those with a view - fit in the $700,000 to $800,000 price range.

Local amenities in Northcote are excellent. The local primary schools and Northcote College have continually high reputations, and many buyers are moving into the area for the schools alone. Northcote College has excelled in academic, sporting and cultural endeavours.

The strip shopping caters well for the area and the nearby Northcote, Birkenhead and Glenfield shopping centres are very popular. Northcote is particularly noted for its multicultural appeal and there are many ethnic shopping and eating options. The leisure opportunities include walks around the Northcote coastline as well as other tramping and walking options. The Chelsea Sugar Works and recently refurbished Bridgeway theatre are also popular local landmarks, which attract many from outside the area.