Bungalow still going strong
Fitness- oriented couple have loved the serenity of this character homes and its grounds, says Sandra Goodwin
Afitness- focussed couple adore this serene property while happily acknowledging some of its key selling points are wasted on them and their beloved bulldogs. Power lifter Leanne Simays and her body building logistics manager husband Alex Simays first met in a gym and now own two gyms in Papakura and Howick. Leanne says: “People comment on what an up- to- date modern kitchen we have in this house, which is kind of funny when you think about it because we eat quite basic food for our fitness.”
Another big drawcard here are the grounds, including a heated pool and large rear lawn. When the Simays moved here five years ago they wanted more space for their German shepherd Xanda, who’s since passed away.
Leanne says: “Now, as well as our three cats, we’ve got an English bulldog Tonka and a French bulldog Tank. But bulldogs aren’t big on walking so they’re not that fussed about all our outdoor space.”
The couple like the welcoming character of the renovated 1920s Californian weatherboard bungalow after last owning a modern house.
Leanne says: “To me, a new home has a feeling of staunchness to it, a feeling that everything has to be in its place. This place has much more of a home- like feeling to it, despite everything having been done up smartly before we got here.”
It features inviting polished native timber floors. Other details such as door handles and window hardware are in keeping with the home’s character.
Leanne averages about 65 hours a week over six days managing their gyms so this property’s peaceful setting is a welcome contrast.
And yet the Simays also find the location very handy. They can be in Papakura in little more than 15 minutes, in Pukekohe under 10 minutes and get onto the motorway to Hamilton just a couple of minutes up the road.
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1814 GREAT SOUTH RD, BOMBAY SIZE: PRICE: $ 1.235 million. INSPECT: SCHOOLS: CONTACT: ON THE WEB: * Plus off- street.