Otahuhu

This vibrant area offers solid homes on good-sized sections, writes CHARLOTTE COSSAR.

This colourful neighbourhood with a population of about 11,984 has a strong sense of community and history.

Situated between Manukau Harbour and the Tamaki River, there are a variety of ethnic groups, including Maori, Pacific Islands and Asian, giving the area a lively cultural life. This is equally balanced by sports, which is also an important part of everyday living.

Otahuhu is centrally located to the airport, Papatoetoe, Manukau, Mt Wellington and Onehunga and it attracts a cross-section of people from all age groups.

Being close to Great South Rd means that motorway access is a breeze and buses and trains run regularly. And the affordable housing on decent-sized, flat sections makes the area attractive to investors and first-home buyers.

Generally, the homes in Otahuhu are solidly built bungalows and there are some waterfront properties, which are always in demand.

This vibrant community, which is a great shopping and eating destination, is seen by many as the next Ponsonby.

Things to do:

If you are active Otahuhu is the place for you. It has rugby league, netball, softball, golf, rowing, badminton and a bowling club. And if these don't take your fancy, there is also a recreation centre. And if you suffer any injuries after all this activity, Middlemore Hospital is just down the road.

A little more relaxing is the morning market held every Thursday and for the festive season, Otahuhu hosts a Christmas parade.

For a leisurely stroll, the seaside park and foreshore are a good option and for the foodies among us, the array of eateries, where you are never short of a good meal, regardless of ethnic preference, are abundant.

Schools

The schools in Otahuhu include Fairburn, Otahuhu Primary, Otahuhu Intermediate, McAuley High, Te Kura Waipuna Community High, King's College and Otahuhu College.

Property prices

Properties range from $89,000 for a unit, which are always in demand by older residents, to $400,000 for a waterfront property. At present, the average three-bedroom home will cost you between $150,000 and $200,000.

Although the whole area is sought-after, areas close to the shopping centre, Great South Rd, the motorway and the waterfront tend to be snapped up fairly quickly.

Many people are moving to Otahuhu from other areas of Auckland as they see this suburb as an affordable option with solid homes and full-size sections. It also attracts immigrants and investors.