Three Kings

Great schools, a central location and affordable homes make the area a popular destination, writes CHARLOTTE COSSAR.

This central location has the same appeal as Mt Eden and Epsom but it doesn't have the corresponding price tag. Although only a few minutes further down the road and a bit more elevated, Three Kings is an area with tradition and a peaceful atmosphere.

Named after the cluster of 20,000-year-old volcanic cones, between Mt Eden and Mt Roskill, Three Kings is now a sought-after suburb with views of the Waitakere Ranges and the city.

The area has a mix of housing, from character bungalows built in the 1920s and 30s to the infill and State housing constructed in the past 20 years.

The great local shopping centre, Three Kings Plaza, has a range of shops, a supermarket and a library. The supermarket has been around for a long time and was once the destination for many eastern suburbs shoppers. Now there is a trendy cafe to cater for the coffee lovers in the area and the younger residents who are flocking into the area with a view to moving closer to the city at some stage.

Things to do

The quarry site has interesting walks up to the reserve. It is well worth your while as the views are amazing.

The suburb is also well served by community and sporting facilities. There is a venue for junior athletics and rugby league.

Who lives here?

The makeup of residents is changing with the dynamics of new terraced housing blocks and infill housing being built. The old State housing area is now a mix of owner-occupied housing and tenanted homes, with many trendy renovations being done to the very popular ex-State houses. These solid houses are being snapped up as soon as they hit the market and are attracting an influx of young working couples and singles to the area.

Why are people moving here?

People are moving to Three Kings because the house prices are still affordable, compared to its expensive neighbours. Only 20 minutes from the central business district, you are also close to the airport and Manukau, Onehunga and the Industrial Edge and West Auckland.

Families are also moving to the area for the schools. Three Kings Primary School is more than 100 years old and its swimming pool is a valuable community asset.

As debate continues in many of the surrounding areas and with zones constantly reviewed, people feel settled by knowing the school zones in Three Kings are fairly constant.

Property prices

House prices vary, from the State housing areas with two-to-three-bedroom houses selling from $190,000 to $260,000 to elevated properties with views selling for $300,000 to $400,000. And one-, two- and three-bedroom terrace houses can start from the low $200,000s and townhouses can fetch more than $400,000. One-bedroom units sell from $120,000 and two-bedroom units from $260,000. In the past year, a five-bedroom home in a cul-de-sac has sold for $665,000.