Bay of Plenty Times

Kiwifruit, avos and charming lifestyle in sheltered Aongatete

- By Jo Ferris

Given a profession­ally-managed orchard with dual income from kiwifruit and avocados, this is an oppo,r tunity to move in and reap the rewards almost instantly. First National’s rural specialist, Ross Goodwin, says crop prediction­s for this season are promising, with estimated increases for both the kiwifruit and avocados. If a sale is unconditio­nal before the kiwifruit is picked, the buyer will gain income from an estimated 11,000 trays. This is up from 8,000 trays last year. Avocado estimation­s are 103 bins, also up from 61 last year.

The forecast says a lot about the location- a north-facing, sunny position in Aongatete; not to mention excellent orchard management. This property also comes with lush, easy-care gardens and a stream flowing through. With around 5.8 hectares, the orchard comprises gently tiered blocks with kiwifruit and avocados split evenly.

The upper level houses 170 mature Hass, well-husbanded avocado trees. Around 1.3 canopy hectares of green kiwifruit sit in equally well-sheltered blocks below the house on the road-level. These are on a steelframe­d pergola system- ideally placed for new varieties’ conversati­on. Complement­ing this is three-bay lock up shed, with a further three bays of lean-to storage.

Overlookin­g it all, tucked neatly in seclusion in a charming corner, the house gazes down across the orchard and around to the Kaimais. With Roskill stone and cedar shingle outside and spacious living inside, the house is warm and sunny. High-pitched ceilings in family life enhance the space. Living is open plan- with a country-style kitchen, dining and lounge. Logfire comfort is a boon during colder months, while solar panels help keep hot water heating costs down.

Outdoor flow is significan­t and there are extra living areas, linked with dining and the kitchen. A conservato­ry offers yet another sun-drenched area, while floor-length glazing frames the countrysid­e and doors spill out to a spacious deck and spa pool area at the side. With the Kaimai Range in full view, it’s an inviting spot to soak away the cares of the day, toasting sunset. With a large, practical laundry for added convenienc­e, this is family lifestyle at its bestgorgeo­us gardens, playground lawns and fun down by the rocky stream. Katikati is the closest township -a friendly country village, with schooling, golf and access to nature trails in the Kaimais. Forta Leza is just up the road for pizza. And when you want to launch the boat for a spot of fishing or water skiing, there are harbour inlets a short drive away.

With the orchard profession­ally managed, this is ideal for anyone interested in a production property, while commuting to Tauranga for work. The dual income stream is the encouragin­g aspect- particular­ly given the increased crop forecasts- if this orchard is purchased prior to harvest.

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