Pt Chevalier

By CHARLOTTE COSSAR.

Pt Chevalier is one of those enigmatic Auckland suburbs that everyone knows of yet few people know well. Close to the city, all the advantages of inner-city living are obtained, yet the freedom of the open air and suburban lifestyles are so nearby.

With inner-city living comes the excitement of a multicultural, cosmopolitan atmosphere - all close to pleasant waterfront amenities and family-friendly recreational facilities. "What I love about Pt Chevalier," says one resident, "is the close proximity to work, yet the ability to unwind from a stressful day within minutes by taking the children to the park and the dog for a walk in a beach environment. While not always obvious, an understated arty sub current pervades the suburb."

Apropos of Pt Chevalier's development since the 1920s is the prevalence of many wooden bungalows, punctuated by a significant number of brick and tile 1930s vintage state houses and stucco-clad art deco homes. These homes and the suburb's location make it a desirable choice for many young professionals wanting to recreate that character home close to work.

Property prices in the area vary from comparatively lower-priced dwellings through to modern mansions (including renovated older houses) selling for well over the $1 million mark. Recently, sales of some of the more exclusive Pt Chevalier homes have approached the $2 million level.

The properties offer plenty to prospective buyers in the form of one- to two-bedroom investment (or nest) units through to four- to five-bedroom large-scale family houses on full sections. Examples of properties on the market include five-bedroom character bungalows on sections around 800sq m going for between $600,000 and $700,000.

Three- to four-bedroom family homes are available for between $400,000 and $500,000, however. These homes tend to be more modern and require less maintenance, making them ideal for busy professionals or smaller families.

The exclusive Pt Chev homes tend to be closer to the beach and will sell for over $1 million. These pads are large (more than three bedrooms) and are on larger sections.

The area has many attractive amenities. These include numerous cafes, popular restaurants and some attractive strip shopping. The shopping centre on Great North Rd includes supermarkets, liquor wholesalers and other convenient retail outlets.

Close by, Western Springs Park provides an attractive and popular destination for families, couples and singles alike with its idyllic walkways and get-away-from-it-all ambience - despite the close proximity to the central city. Auckland Zoo and MOTAT remain targets of choice for tourists as well as locals. The Speedway is busy during the summer months, while concerts are still performed at the stadium. The annual Pasifika festival is a huge drawcard.

Education is a strong pull-factor for Pt Chevalier with the innovative Unitec being a renowned tertiary provider. Numerous successful primary schools are also located in the suburb, while Western Springs College has a growing reputation as a ground-breaking secondary school.