Country-like sanctuary in city
It’s full of character and has prominent names among its previous owners, writes Donna Fleming
Stand on the wisteria-covered front porch of Mark Venter and Mandie Skerrett’s Parnell home and it feels as if you’re in a grand country estate. With its park-like grounds and air of tranquility broken only by birdsong, you could easily be a long way from the hustle and bustle of the city.
But a glimpse through the trees of buildings in the distance reveals that the house is actually only minutes from the centre of Auckland.
“When we first saw it, Mandie immediately said it was a sanctuary in the city, and that’s exactly what it has been,” says Mark. “It’s so peaceful and quiet, and there’s so much space, yet it’s only five minutes’ drive into the city.”
The couple had been house-hunting for two years and not seen anything that met their criteria, which included a large, flat site close to town.
That was until 2002. “We kind of stumbled on this place and as soon as we walked down the treelined driveway and saw the house, Mandie went, ‘This is it!’ and I said, ‘Oh, bugger!’
“I knew it was going to hurt, but it was worth every cent. It’s been a fantastic place to live. It’s always felt as if it gives you room to breathe.”
The couple, who’ve had three daughters since moving in, love the fact that the house backs on to Alberon Reserve (which can be reached via a gate in the back fence) and that it’s an easy stroll through Scarborough Reserve to Parnell Road shops, restaurants, cafes and bars.
La Cigale French market is just down the road, but because St George’s Bay Rd was blocked off halfway down many years ago, there is no through traffic.
Mark and Mandie are just the fourth owners. Previous owners include the family of James Slater — who designed the layout of Albert Park and its iconic band rotunda — and renowned broadcaster and journalist Cherry Raymond.
Full of charm and character, it has many beautiful period features, including wood paneling in the spacious entrance lobby and dining room, and a mixture of beamed and board-and-batten ceilings.
A downstairs bedroom has a lovely square bay window, while the fireplace in the living room is carrara marble. Upstairs are two bedrooms, with the master boasting an en suite and a walk-in
57 ST GEORGE’S BAY RD, PARNELL SIZE (more or less): House 192sq m, land
1518sq m.
SALE: By negotiation.
INSPECT: Sat/Sun, noon to 12.45pm.
SCHOOLS: Parnell District Primary School, double grammar zone.
CONTACT: Silvia Poletti, Barfoot & Thompson, 021 311 311.
wardrobe. It also has a sea view.
The downstairs bedroom has an adjoining study, while the dining room has french doors opening out to the garden.
A bonus is a guest house adjoining the garage, with kitchenette, bathroom and large living/ bedroom.
“One of our friends came to stay for a short while and ended up being there for two years,” says Mark.
As well as being suitable for teenagers, extended family or a nanny, the guest house would also make an ideal work-from-home space.
Over the years Mandie and Mark have looked into options for extending the house, including adding an extra three bedrooms, and enlarging the kitchen.
They also had plans drawn up for a pool and terrace on the north-facing flat lawn.
“Even if it was completely taken up with a pool, there is still plenty of green space,” says Mark.
His girls made good use of that space, playing games and creating a fairy garden among the established trees.
Mandie and Mark always said they’d never sell, but they’re heading south for a different lifestyle.
And now the property, which is zoned Mixed Housing Urban, gets to move on to its next phase.
“We feel extremely lucky to have lived here,” says Mark. “It is a very special place.”