RAY WHITE
This pristine Birkenhead villa on a full section sold under the hammer for $2.32m, considerably more than that the $1.956m RV.
It’s not every day a real estate agent seeks to delve further into the past of a property, but that’s what Chris Gemmell of Ray White Birkenhead did, for a house that had been in the same family for 82 years.
The property, at 5 Mariposa Cres, Birkenhead sold under the hammer at the end of last year for $2.35 million, well above the RV of $1.965 million. And, unlike many old villas that have been in the same family for decades, this one was freshly decorated.
Gemmell says there were just two owners prior to the family that sold, which is remarkable for a house that is more than 110 years old.
RAY WHITE
Chris Gemmell (left) is an “avid avocate” of New Zealand’s character architecture. Built long before the harbour bridge was built, the villa has a small garage and a studio at the rear.
“Steeped in history, this classical home has enjoyed a sense of family since the midst of WWII, where children were raised and educated here. It has been a pleasure to interview some of the family members who still live nearby today, who have generously passed on gems of information about life in the early days.
“They talked about the village atmosphere, when people had more time to enjoy the simple things.”
RAY WHITE
There is a picturesque view across to Herne Bay.
Gemmell thinks the reason owners have stayed so long is down to the location.
“Early days in Birkenhead revolved around the employment of many workers at the Chelsea Sugar Refinery, with the local village supporting this bustling trade. Hinemoa Street nearby was the spot to walk down the hill for the paper, milk and meat from the butcher. Schools were within walking distance, some of which were across Le Roy’s bush reserve.
“Swims could be enjoyed at local Chelsea Bay at high tide. The library was the place for books and the study of world events, there was even a local cinema. There was no harbour bridge. This was a time when the North Shore relied on ferries and marine craft for transport and goods to and from the local wharf.”
RAY WHITE
The original veranda has been preserved with all its fretwork and stained glass.
Gemmell says his interest was sparked as he is an “avid advocate of New Zealand character architecture”, and he was thrilled to be marketing an “unspoiled” villa.
“Situated on a near-quarter acre, the land has not been cut up and divided, or the street heritage dumbed down by terraced townhouses. Without intending to be controversial, it is so nice to see these timeless landmarks retained. You can just walk out into the citrus orchard beyond the studio, where time seems to have stood still.”
The villa keeps its original dimensions, which means it is not open-plan, but has a modern kitchen and bathroom, and the original floorboards have been polished throughout.
RAY WHITE
The house also retains is spacious proportions, thanks to the high ceilings.
RAY WHITE
The kitchen adjoins the dining room (or casual living area) and opens to the outdoors.
RAY WHITE
This room is set up as a dining room, between the formal living area and kitchen.
Ray White
This bedroom, one of three, looks out to the front of the house.
HOMED
After 12 years, the owners of this double-bay villa are divesting of their investment property, offering a rare opportunity for a buyer.
