On a sultry summer day there is no better place than home in the green and gorgeous surrounds of your 1.694ha park like property.

Waikaraka Drive, off Te Puna's Snodgrass Road, is the secluded location of several prime and private properties set in beautiful gardens many of which lead down to the estuary wetlands. This property has to be one of the best. A tidal river runs along its lower boundary with boardwalks and jetties. Kayakers paddle past. Children play happily. Parents watch from the shade of the many mature trees. Paradise. That's what this family found when they discovered the sort of sweeping lawns and established gardens that would be the province of the privileged few in England. They have only loved living here a few short months but relatives' suddenly declining health necessitates the decision to return where they are most needed. But they have had a wonderful summer here. The doors outside from the living area and three bedrooms have been constantly open. The sides of the covered patio have been pulled up on all but really rainy days and it has become the favourite summer living space. The attractive brick and cedar three bedroom home has worked well for a family of five. There are two bathrooms, one an en suite to the master bedroom and the other neatly linking the other two double bedrooms. The plan was to extend to a fourth bedroom - no problem the builder said. The living room is already large and lofty with vaulted ceiling adding a sense of airiness. The large tiled dining area next door is linked to an efficient attractive kitchen which looks out over the rear courtyard.