Hauraki-Coromandel Post

Open site, kiwi bach offers place to build holiday dreams

- By Jo Ferris

As one year rolls over to the next, this particular time of year – arguably, like no other – brings family together. It happens all around the country; nowhere more so than Whangamata. This holiday mecca built its tradition on rekindling togetherne­ss in a place that is backed by years of memories.

Memories of seemingly endless summers; growing up barefoot and fancy free, salt in the hair and sand between the toes. Whangamata’s vibe revolves around kiwis’ love of tossing the shackles of work life away for a few weeks. To laze in the sun, swim and surf in the ocean, and live on barbecues with family and friends.

Whangamata’s skyline might be changing, the houses might be getting grander, but the mood remains. Those traditiona­l ‘camp-site’ sections with the quintessen­tial bach are disappeari­ng. So, to find one – at Whangamata’s estuary end, and mere one or two minute walk from the ocean beach – is like striking the lottery.

Bayleys’ Gordon Mcgregor rekindled his own childhood memories when he saw this place. Just standing here, dreaming of what could be stirs sentimenta­l urges to recreate those happy times and pass them on to the next generation.

He says it’s with great sadness the family trust has decided to sell this property after decades of memories and magnificen­t times together. This is the quieter end of Whangamata – much preferred by some, according to Gordon; and sought after. The beach a mere amble down the road to surf, swim or dive around the rocks; the estuary around the corner for a quiet kayak – and the local store for supplies, takeaways and ice-cream.

Then it’s all about the property.

A large corner site for a greater sense of space, elevated for more prominence. It’s around 792 square metres – housing the typical kiwi bach - a cosy, two-bedroom holiday pad; bearing all the hallmarks of its era and simple way of life. It’s easy to envision life here around this time of year – tents, caravans, cars, and boats on trailers; the volleyball net set up on the lawn, barbecue out on the patio, with tables, umbrellas and bean bags scattered around.

Two options are clear here. Enjoy it as is and keep the classic summer holiday tradition alive and thriving. Or, plan the dream home for holiday or permanent living. This is Whangamata, after all. Dale Sholson says it is a wonderful redevelopm­ent opportunit­y when looking at the quality surroundin­g homes. He sums this opportunit­y up rather well when suggesting: “Trust your instincts. Your family and friends will thank you for investing in this exciting property.”

 ?? ??
 ?? ??
 ?? ??

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from New Zealand