Paremoremo

By CHARLOTTE COSSAR.

When Paremoremo is mentioned the mind automatically responds to images of a maximum-security prison keeping us safe from some of this nation's most wanted criminals.

However, Paremoremo is one of greater Auckland's exciting residential up-and-comers, providing a pleasing diversity of residential housing.

Local real estate agent Martin Campbell, of Barfoot & Thompson, has lived in Paremoremo for 15 years. His wife, however, is more of a local identity having lived here for more than 30 years.

Martin says he loves the simple benefits of the place. "Paremoremo has a uniqueness all of its own and offers peace, privacy and is thoroughly blessed with Mother Nature's best."

He says it abounds with a variety of scenic beauty - with undulating grassy pastoral settings with resident horses, sheep and cows - an abundance of protected native bush, panoramic upper harbour water views, and access for deep-water mooring, kayaking, fishing, sailing and fun.

"Not to mention friendly people," he says. As for working in the area? "I've been with Barfoot & Thompson in Albany for seven years and work throughout the area, but specialise in Paremoremo, with 71 sales there to date.

"My success in the area stems from enthusiasm and local knowledge. I'm only a six-minute country drive to my office. As the saying goes, 'having your cake and eating it too'."

Situated about 9km west of Albany and consisting of mostly one- to five-acre rural lifestyle blocks and a semi-rural residential area along Auckland's upper harbour, it has been described as one of the safest suburbs in Auckland, according to one local resident.

AMENITIES

Ridge View School offers local children a progressive community-oriented programme, combining a country school atmosphere with all the modern facilities, says Martin.

Other attractions include the Paremoremo Community Centre, which has a variety of activities all year round and is the active social hub of the area, a 200-acre native bush reserve, a bush walk along the Paremoremo Stream with rock pools and waterfalls, a local wharf and small boat ramp and, of course, the substantial facilities available at nearby Albany. Infamous for its sports stadium, the area has great shopping, schools, a university, recreation outlets and entertainment complexes.

WHO BUYS HERE?

Campbell says the popularity of the area has skyrocketed in the past few years. "Locals refer to Paremoremo as 'the district's best-kept secret'."

He says it's exciting to see the interest grow when newcomers experience "Pare" for the first time and rave about the unique and varied beauty of the place.

People of all ages choose to live here. Especially those who value nature, peace, privacy and want something different, according to Campbell. "Those who like to fish, sail, kayak and enjoy beautiful natural settings close to home love here."

Included in those are many young families escaping the stress and sprawl of residential subdivisions as well as those who enjoy the recreational potential of a water playground.