NBR TOP PROPERTIES: five stunning baches

It's never too early to start thinking about summer getaways, so this week NBR ONLINE is checking out the country's best holiday homes. 

Sotheby’s agent Ross Hawkins says there has been a spike in interest for holiday homes because of increasing house values in the Auckland market.

“At the beginning of the GFC people sold holiday houses and boats to retain their family homes. Now it’s going the other way.” 

He says winter is a good time to shop for a bach because generally there is more choice.

“We’re getting more activity within an hour and a half of Auckland and even up to the Bay of Islands.”

The real estate agent says a favourable exchange rate for Australian buyers has generated more offshore interest in recent weeks.

Great Barrier Island

Bed: 5 Bath: 3
130sq m home on 5.92ha section
CV: $680,000 in 2011
Price Guide: $3.995 million

This property has been extensively upgraded over the years, and includes a deep-water jetty and a 7m Haines Hunter power boat. There is plenty of crayfish on the coast nearby and mussels and oysters on rocks either side of the bay. Recreational facilities include a tennis court and a volleyball court. In addition to the main house there is a guest cottage and a two hexagonal chalets. View full listing here. 

Tairua, Bay of Plenty

Bed: 3 Bath: 1
70sq m bach on 10.22ha
CV: NA
Price guide: $2,250,000

A few hours' drive from Auckland, this is a classic Kiwi bach was built in the 70s. It has private access down to the beach, walking tracks and a stream. View full listing here. 

Hibiscus Coast

Bed: 3 Bath: 1
1012sq m section
CV: $2.6 million
Price guide: $2.6 million.

Less than an hour from Auckland, this has north-facing sea views. The property is a short walk from Manly village and close to two golf courses. As well as this bach, the owners are selling a former Lockwood showhome on the same title. There is also a tennis court for sale on a separate title. View full listing here. 

Matapouri

Bed: 3 Bath: 1
440sq m home on 7.91ha
CV: $1.54 million
Price guide: Late $3 millions

This is a substantial coastal home with access to four coves and beaches. The Pip Cheshire designed property is solid concrete and has generous living spaces. The owners are selling three other titles, one with a cottage, which are available as one parcel. View full listing here.

The Mount

Bed: 4 Bath: 3 Car: 2
284sq m
CV: $1.9 million
Price guide: $2.35 million

This home doubled in size when renovated in 2007 and sits on a prime beachfront spot. The property has a stunning tiled entry, raked ceilings and a gas fire. Its generous living spaces include a giant balcony accessible through bi-fold doors off the lounge. View full listing here. 

vyoung@nbr.co.nz