Rotorua Daily Post

Separate living lifts family options near bush and water

- By Jo Ferris

The name on the fence at the entry to this property says it all: Bush Haven. It is all that and more. A log-cabin hint from yesterday blends with cottage accommodat­ion in a variety of ways that both surprise and please. It’s the sort of place, families can combine their wealth and invest in a total escape – enjoy the privacy of separate quarters, but gather in this home’s heart to revel in the equally private tranquilli­ty that surrounds it all.

Immersed in bush in the charming confines of Okere Road at Okere

Falls, this haven is all about the bush, the lake and the falls nearby. Either trekking the bush trails, fishing and boating on Lake Rotoiti or tackling some river rafting – this is definitely the place to be doing it.

It’s a multi-layered property in so many ways. The house is built to a sloping site, which allows a home of levels – levels in surprising ways though. High-pitched gabled ceilings – lined with sarked timber – allow a couple of mezzanine lofts in places. One in the lounge, and in two of the bedrooms. They instil added intrigue and a sense of secrecy which the kids

will love.

Two connected living areas are the main focus – a family area linked with the kitchen and a gas ‘log’ fire, with outdoor flow to a balcony. Living then flows into the lounge with its gabled ceiling corner, mezzanine and another fire – a real wood burner. Cushioned window seats bask in the sun for some lazy reading, while ranchslide­rs slip outside to a large deck and garden beyond. This is the upper layer of the section – flat lawn and bush fringing the garden to offer a home for the birds.

Three bedrooms and two bathrooms include an ensuite master on the top floor of the main dwelling. And this is where the property widens its multi-layered appeal. Above the garage is a cute sleepout, which can be used as a fourth bedroom. Boardwalk entry connects it with the main house. Other than that, it’s semi-self-contained with a quaint Juliette balcony and bathroom.

Moving further down the drive, a fully self-contained cottage sits on its own off the driveway. This is larger; with one bedroom, a bathroom/ laundry and spacious open-plan living with a fully functionin­g kitchen, dining area and lounge. A wood

burner keeps life toasty – and with a modern light décor, the knotty tone of timber flooring adds the touch of rustic charm in keeping with this bush haven.

A separate double garage offers room for the boat, car and the boards, kayaks and fishing gear. There’s plenty of additional parking space for the campervan and other vehicles should you need it. It’s brilliant for family get togethers. Then again, a permanent move gives options for a separate workplace, health clinic, rental income or Airbnb perhaps? Choices are endless - but one thing is certain.

Bush haven, this property certainly is

 ?? ?? Boundary is indicative
Boundary is indicative
 ?? ?? SLEEPOUT
SLEEPOUT
 ?? ?? COTTAGE
COTTAGE

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