Schist Manor - Simply Unique

Tauranga's Ngatai ridge carries a ribbon of properties boasting among the best harbour views on the waterfront - waking with the sun to gaze at shipping cruising into port. The panorama embraces postcard scenery from the port and yacht club, the Mount's high-rise skyline and Matakana to spectacular Kaimai sunsets.

Schist Manor boasts a commanding presence - Mauao resplendent on the horizon; Kulim Park's green fringe below and gentle train chug a reminder of how close city life is - yet swathed in peace and privacy all the while. House of the Year national runner up in 2000 and having graced House and Garden, it's an extraordinary example of how vision, persistence and uncompromising diligence brought this property to the present day.

Its position allows that rare attribute of single-level living for all but one entertainment room. The house hides from the road - envied seclusion - tucked down a private lane with parking for up to six vehicles. This, on top of substantial garaging - one male domain with king-size double space, workshop/tool room, wash-tub and separate access to utility corners outside. A second, single garage - for her - caters effortlessly for the sports car, inbuilt storage and closets.

First-impression awe is borne out in this home's very name - the amount of schist, let alone its detail, is unique in this district. It covers most of the exterior - cedar the rightful trim in discreet places. Walls and gardens are paved with schist - weathered kwila on decking and retaining walls adding to the subtle marine theme and appeal of an astonishing tiered garden that steps down through double-decker entertainment balconies into a lush oasis below. Duck across to Kulim Park, relish the garden, or savour the house towering above and all that its layers provide in terms of grand lifestyle.

With features too many to cover - several elements emphasise this home's intricate facets. Hand-laid parquet flooring with brass inlays weave from the foyer, through passages and family living. It's astounding - as are the feature lead-light windows. The heart of the home, however, draws breath. The kitchen is a thing of beauty - American Oak masterfully crafted into colonial styling of remarkable quality and detail - a striking circular skylight one of many shedding natural light and mood throughout the home. Exquisite detail flows through bathrooms, bedrooms, lounge, to laundry rooms. Even the hydraulic lift lowering to the party den is a thing of elegance. It's an invitation to delicious entertainment - with another stunning kitchen to prepare food and drinks, before spilling out to a split-level barbecue balcony bathed in sun and scenery.

It's an amazing property - masterfully created and finished with every luxurious detail imaginable. Schist Manor is ready for another chapter in its enchanting journey.

To view this wonderful property please phone Adrienne Lellman 027 434 5834 and she will be happy to show you through.