Q&A

MOUNT MAUNGANUI IS: A village. It’s got that safe, small town thing happening, with kids on scooters going between each other’s houses. We’re always looking out for each other’s kids, feeding them, knowing where they are. (Pete) FAVOURITE LOCAL CAFE: Luca for coffee, Flour and Water for a family meal. (Gill) FAVOURITE MEAL IN: Gill’s Thai green chicken curry on Friday nights. (Pete)

BIGGEST IMPROVEMENT ON OUR LAST HOUSE: The open plan lounge was too big. Here, it’s brilliant to be able to close off the family room and have a smaller, cosier space. (Gill) THE PERFECT TIME TO BUILD: Never. Just do it. (Pete) BEST DECORATING TIP: Get help. Bring in the professionals. We know our limitations. (Gill) BEST DECISION WE MADE: Using Brendon Gordon as an architect. He totally understood what we were wanting to do. (Pete) Pete and Gill McSweeney