SCHOOL ZONES:
Greenhithe Primary, Albany Junior High, Albany Senior High.
CONTACT:
Judy McGaffin, 950 3568 or 027 807 6536 or Dene Moss Mason 021 567 100.
For many years, Greenhithe has been one of Auckland's best-kept secrets -- but that may not be the case for much longer.
The seaside North Shore suburb sits alongside the Upper Harbour Highway and many people drive past without realising just what's there. But in recent years new housing developments have drawn more people to the area, and the benefits of living in Greenhithe -- which include a great family lifestyle, a village atmosphere and easy access to motorways -- are fast becoming recognised.
Now a development under construction by respected Kiwi company Fletcher Living is offering more buyers the chance to enjoy everything the area has to offer. Off Upper Harbour Drive on what was once farmland, the site will be home to 85 top-quality four or five-bedroom houses when it is completed next year.
So far 33 homes have already been sold, and another 18 will be ready for market by Christmas. All houses that go on the market are "turn-key" homes that have been completed down to the very last details, says sales consultant Judy McGaffin.
"We hand over the key and the new owners can walk in knowing everything is done. They just get to move in their things and enjoy their lovely brand-new house."
The European-style homes, made from brick and linea weatherboards, come in a variety of layouts. Most have two living areas, and they are laid out to make the most of the sun and provide good indoor/outdoor flow. Some have views across to the Waitemata Harbour.
Although the homes vary when it comes to design, style and decor, there is a long list of features that they all have in common. These include a digital satellite dish, on-demand gas infinity hot water system, a heat pump and security system with two remote controls.
All homes have heavy-duty quality wool or solution dyed nylon carpets, and there are ceramic or porcelain tiles in the service areas. Garages are fully lined and carpeted, central vacuum systems have been installed and the homes all have insulated ceiling and external wall cavities.
Image 1 of 8: A Greenhithe development offers top-quality homes completed to the last detail.
Thought has gone into the kitchens. They are all European-style, with built-in Fisher & Paykel double ovens, gas cook tops, stainless steel dishwashers and plenty of storage. Some houses have central islands incorporated into the design.
All the properties are being landscaped before being sold, and will have exposed aggregate driveways and paths, along with ready lawn on the front of the section and sown seed on the rear. There is a children's playground on Mackay Drive.
It's a quick drive into Greenhithe village, which has a primary school and collection of shops including a well-stocked superette, chemist, bakery, Indian restaurant and pub.
The shopping malls at Albany and Westgate are also just a short car trip away, as is Massey University's Albany campus and the ferry terminal at Hobsonville Point.
People are starting to realise how close Greenhithe is to amenities and attractions, including beaches on both the west and east coasts, says Judy. "We're also getting a lot of interest from some people who are already living in old Greenhithe and know and love the area, but are keen to have a brand-new home," says Judy.
Buyers so far have included baby boomers who want to downsize from large properties without compromising too much on living space, and families with growing kids who need more room.
"Our buyers know they are getting a quality home, and they all come with 10-year Master Build guarantees," adds Judy.
