When character counts and location matters

This meticulously restored villa located at the doorstep to the Napier CBD comes with the ingredients for a relaxed and tranquil lifestyle, says Rakesh Krishnan.

Sally is English and Nick a Kiwi. Previously they worked on board yachts – she as chef, he as captain. Between them the couple have clocked up 35 years travelling far and wide, most recently based in the Mediterranean. When they finally decided to permanently weigh anchor in New Zealand, not surprisingly, their city of choice turned out to be Napier. “It reminds us a lot of the warm and relatively dry climate of the Mediterranean,” they say. “Plus after years of sea travel, a calm and tranquil neighbourhood appealed to us.” The couple originally looked in the area for a new build, but nothing they saw piqued their interest until they came upon this renovated villa in Napier South. “We were immediately attracted to its character features,” says Sally. “At the same time it offered us the modern conveniences and comforts we are used to.” Initially, Sally worked as an administrator for a local boat builder while Nick went into building. Their home’s location on the doorstep of the CBD – and 20 minutes to Hastings – proved handy for commuting. Plus, Napier South offers ease of access to beaches as well as the dining and entertaining areas of Ahuriri. “Our idea of enjoying Hawkes Bay is discovering/ rediscovering New Zealand,” Nick explains. “We spend a lot of time walking, dining and wining.” The charming character home has been lovingly refurbished with style and attention to detail – while retaining its period features such as high ceilings, French doors and warm timber flooring. The interiors are generously proportioned, exuding the wow factor throughout. The sense of space is greatly enhanced by the long, extrawide hallways and the large windows throughout that allow the sun to cascade in from multiple angles, creating a light-filled ambience. With two separate living areas, three good-sized bedrooms (including the master with ensuite and walkin wardrobe), study and a second bathroom, it’s an ideal family home. Nick and Sally’s favourite spot is the large kitchen hub. “It’s such a great entertainment space with big sliding doors with seamless access to the pool and garden fringed by mature trees,” they say. “It’s a private and relaxing setting. Our family and friends just latch on to our invites.” While the former yachters were able to resist the call of the sea, a different call is proving stronger. “We are moving to be nearer family,” they say, adding, “But we’ll always miss this lovely villa.”