The previous owner had added the large top storey -- or first floor -- in which is the master bedroom suite with bathroom, walk-in wardrobe, a tiny kitchenette and generous study-cum-living room, or possibly even a nursery.
"But we did everything else ourselves," says Christine.
They began by extending the back of the house on the ground floor and it now houses a designer kitchen plus pantry and scullery, with three ovens and two dishwashers. There's a separate laundry, with loads of linen cupboard space.
This part of the house is open-plan and also encompasses a family living room which opens on to elevated decking and casual dining. A delightful bay window looks completely original but was added during the renovation.
"We were lucky to have a builder who paid fine attention to detail and matching."
Also on this floor, beyond the handsome front door, are three large bedrooms, a brand new bathroom with separate toilet, plus a formal dining room and formal lounge.
The restful yet sophisticated colour palette on the walls and in the furnishings exudes elegance.
Image 1 of 9: Modernisation complements kauri beauty
"On the practical side, the high stud is perfect when you have a very tall husband and even taller sons," says Christine. "The boys are teenagers now and when their friends are around we can escape to this front part of the house for a cup of coffee -- or a glass of wine."
Grant, whose work is involved in the rollout of fibre to home network, is a wine buff and the cellar in the lower ground level, reached via internal or external stairs, is his true pride and joy.
"It's built right up against volcanic rock, which helps maintain a consistent temperature," he explains. "That's very important."
Also on this level is the media room, a handy bathroom for the boys after they've been in the salt water swimming pool, and the double garage with internal access -- a rare attribute for a villa.
During their time here Grant and Christine have enhanced every feature of the house to the highest standard: ducted gas central heating, extensive insulation, a sound system, alarm plus CCTV and much more.
"We're simply custodians," Grant says.
"We've played our part in the history of this lovely, historic house; there's nothing more to do, and now it's time to move on."
That process makes particular sense to the couple, following a visit from the granddaughter of the people who built it in 1909.
"This was a few years ago, and she was 85. She remembered it well from her girlhood and pointed to where there were once stables and a duck pond. Apparently there was just an attic where our bedroom is now, and a coal range in the hall. She even showed us a photo of herself and her sister on the front veranda," Christine says. "It felt really good to see her -- a little teary, yet so happy to be back here."
The Price family is moving closer to the water, as they've always wanted sea views. However, they'll miss the street parties, great neighbours and close proximity to schools and amenities.
