"Everywhere we have lived we have been within walking distance of where the action is," says Kelly. "We can walk to the cafes, the children's school."
Ken and Kelly were keen to put their own stamp on this classic home when they bought it. Built in the 1880s, its upper level was added around the 1920s or 30s. They modernised the interior in harmony with the traditional look, painting the interior walls in Resene Napa - the hall's fine wooden detailing alone took two weeks to paint. "We didn't do anything major structurally," explains Kelly, but they did paint and carpet, add new light fittings, including an impressive chandelier, curtains and landscape the large section. "We didn't want to overmodernise it, we just complemented its character with modern ideas."
The couple point out the detail in the banisters and wood panelling throughout the home, the pressed ceilings, original brass doorknobs and key latches, the magnificent leadlight windows.
On the ground level you have the hub of the home, the classic European kitchen with a large Aga-style oven, granite benches plus marble-topped central table. An open-plan design incorporates the family room and this is where the Applegates and their two children, Caroline, 10, and Dylan, 8, spend most of their time in summer. Bifold doors open to the deck, built with wide stairs which also make great seats, then the paved terrace under the shade of the pohutukawa beside the gas-heated pool and jacuzzi. Bordering this is the lawn, large enough for Dylan and his friends to practise cricket, and the trampoline in the corner.
"In the weekends we throw open the doors and the kids spend their time in the swimming pool, playing cricket or on the trampoline," says Ken. "Our friends come round in the evening and we pop open a bottle of wine and then roll into the evening."
"It's a great family home but also a great entertaining home," says Kelly.
Also on this level is the kids' entertainment room, the adults' lounge, formal dining with cosy fireplace, bathroom then a separate "wing" with bedroom, office and living room. This area, with its external access, once was a doctor's surgery; but the Applegates use the rooms for Ken's office and to accommodate friends or family who come to stay.
Up the grand flight of stairs, to the spacious landing, are the five bedrooms and two bathrooms. Three bedrooms, including the large master suite, are on the northern side with views over the harbour, the sugar refinery and the harbour bridge.
Ken and Kelly appreciate the convenience of Herne Bay. There's a great community feeling, the children's school, Ponsonby Primary is fantastic, they know all their neighbours. They plan to stay in the area but are selling to free up finance to buy a beach home, hopefully on Waiheke.
