Extensive 180-degree views over the city to Mt Eden, Mt Albert, the Waitakeres and Upper Harbour are just part of the appeal of this new apartment on the penthouse level in the Hopetoun Residences, says owner Hayden Butler.
There's also the proximity to popular Ponsonby Rd, K Rd and the CBD. Across the road is leafy Western Park and Auckland Girls' Grammar.
Hayden bought the Freemans Bay freehold apartment plus another off the plans before the building formerly known as the Baycorp Building was converted to apartments.
"When I first looked at the building, I looked at the view channels and the prices. Being high up you get the views but you also have the privacy factor.
"I just love the view; I think it is busier and more urban than looking out to the sea. I like the greenness of the Waitakeres, watching the weather conditions roll in. And the incredible proximity to Ponsonby Rd. It also has the fantastic park for walking the dogs, and strolling."
His penthouse apartment has an enclave on the right as you come in.
At approximately 2.5m by 2.5m, this has several options, says Hayden.
"You could use this as a TV area and keep the main living space for dining and entertaining."
A bathroom (with laundry) is on the left, then another bathroom and the two bedrooms with their impressively large windows, stretching from floor almost to ceiling and framing the views over the city facing K Road and the Mt Eden.
The main living area has the kitchen, which has Bosch appliances, a marble benchtop and plenty of floor space to add an island bench, and then the wide space for the living and dining. The glass sliding door opens to the deck with those impressive 180-degree views and ample room for outdoor furniture and barbecue.
Image 1 of 4: Watch city life surge by below or fix your eyes on the ranges beyond, then pop out to a cafe. Photos / Supplied
Hayden says the Hopetoun Residences have huge appeal for people who are fixed on being close to Ponsonby Rd as the best place to live.
"You can't get this kind of view unless you go to the northern slopes of Herne Bay. If you go to Jervois Rd you're looking at $2 million-$3 million. Here the apartments are well priced. They are aimed at corporate people and even people at entry level.
"You have one bathroom for the person who lives here and another for guests. This is perfect for a young couple who buy it and are willing to rent the other bedroom."
There are 12 levels in the Hopetoun Residences with around 84 apartments. Residents can use the tennis court and swimming pool.
Hayden and his wife are selling this apartment and will keep the other one, which is on a lower level.
"We bought it two years ago off the plans and the apartment has just been finished in the last couple of weeks.
"The Tawera Group has been in the industry for a couple of decades," says Hayden.
"They produce good products which stand up to the test of time.
