A central front doorway and lobby has the kitchen, dining and living space to its right and there's loads of room for entertaining, with an indoor fireplace to ensure cosy nights in winter. For summer, the patio is large and sun-drenched and a magnet for family and friends.
There's loads of space to install a swimming pool and still plenty of space for children and dogs to run around.
The kitchen has the added bonus of an adjacent scullery where cooking preparation and implements can be hidden out of sight.
"I'd always dreamed of having a scullery and, as I imagined, it's just been fantastic," says Deb.
"It makes entertaining an absolute breeze."
At the opposite end of the house, an office with built-in shelving and three double bedrooms are served by the family bathroom, plus one handy extra toilet in the middle, while the master suite -- bedroom number four -- has a walk-in wardrobe, en suite, and its own patio, which is reached through sliding doors.
"If I have time in the mornings, this is where I like to sit and have a cup of tea in the sun," Deb says.
Sitting-still time is rare for this busy mum though. As well as looking after three lively children aged 13, 10 and 5, she has a thriving business, Kombined Experience, hiring out three meticulously restored and maintained classic Kombi vans for weddings, milestone birthdays and any other occasion that calls for a celebration.
The vehicles are housed in a large shed that's separate from the house -- and is in addition to the triple garage that's part of the main structure.
"One way or another you can keep lots and lots of vehicles on the property, or use some of the space for other things," says Deb.
A former "lean-to" on the side of the Kombi shed is now a well-appointed studio -- ideal for an older family member, or a younger one, maybe a teenager who is looking for a semi-independent lifestyle. It has bathroom, laundry and other living possibilities.
The 1ha property is an ideal size for escaping from city living. Two paddocks are waiting for stock, and the house offers raised vegetable beds and space for chickens.
"It's well situated for local schools," says Deb and we're surprisingly handy to the North Shore, which is another bonus."
Nearby is Riverhead Forest, which is ideal for dog walking or biking, and Muriwai Beach is a relatively quick drive away.
"It's a big thrill having big DIY shops within driving distance now, too."
The family is on the move and Deb hopes she'll be able to find a similar property sometime in the future.
"It couldn't be more perfect," she says.
