Orewa

Once a small seaside town that travellers passed through on their way up north, Orewa is now a destination in its own right. The town has seen an increase in new dwellings recently with the western slopes being developed to make the most of the sea views. Other areas in the town include the flat area by the shops and beach and the area running beside the estuary, Maygrove.

Orewa is home to a large retired population but this is changing with more professionals and families moving to the area because of its seaside lifestyle and easy access to Auckland. The extension of the Northern Motorway to Orewa has made the journey to Auckland city by car about 20 minutes.

Apart from the beach, the town also has a large park, tennis courts, a millennium walkway for ambitious walkers, bush walks through a scenic reserve, mini golf, cafes and a surf lifesaving club, which hosts annual events.

Featured annually are Orewa Big Day, the Gypsy Fair, power boat racing, the October Beer Festival and local sporting events.

To live in Orewa it will cost you between $300,000 and $1 million for an apartment, from $250,000 for a townhouse and from $170,000 for a unit. If you want a property with a view, expect to pay from $300,000 and if you want to live on the waterfront, which are the most sought-after properties, you will pay from $800,000.

Being a seaside town, Orewa has an easy-going atmosphere and this has encouraged buyers from the North Shore, who want to experience the relaxed living they once enjoyed.

Also on the increase is the influx of immigrants, including people from England, South Africa and the United States, who want a small slice of seaside luxury close to the city.

There is also movement from people upgrading in the area and residents who want to live closer to the beach or in a property with a view.