Ross and Wanda moved to 668 Wainui in the late 70’s, when the road was still gravel and you had to cross two one-lane bridges to get to Manu Bay.
When they first found the property, they knew they had stumbled upon a piece of paradise. With its private beach access, and a quick hop and a skip over the rocks to the Manu Bay break, they quickly settled into their new found serenity.
In those days, people didn’t realise what Raglan had. It was all about the east coast back then and Raglan was considered apart of the untamed ‘wild west’. For Ross and Wanda, they knew they had happened across something truly unique.
Since taking on the property, they have added a second cottage and have built up multiple sheds. Even Ross’s 1946 OB Bedford Bus still sits on the property. Their kids took full advantage of the it, each taking their turn living in the eclectic space.
The property spreads just over four acres of land (1.67 ha), and features five rooms across two separate dwellings and four bathrooms, two of which are situated outside in the bush itself.
Over the years Ross and Wanda have welcomed friends, family and strangers (via Air Bnb) into their little piece of paradise. Even the likes of Midge Marsden and Dave McCartney have taken advantage of the magic found within the bush, taking their instruments out for a practice, lighting up the hill with their music.
But don’t discount mother nature when it comes to beautiful sounds. The bush on the property is full and flourishing with the sounds of the Kereru, Tui, Bell Bird, Shining Cuckoo, Morepark and more. Even a penguin showed up one day to share their space. You’ll come across plenty of geko and weta as well on your way down to the beach. Ross and Wanda have taken special care of the land to ensure these native birds and insects feel right at home, where they belong.
“You become a part of the bush there. The landscape shapes you and nourishes all of your senses,” said Wanda.
“The neighbours are awesome. It’s a simple and tranquil life.” Ross mentioned. The property and private beach access situated so close to the Manu Bay boat ramp, has allowed their family to enjoy years of fishing, and of course, the quick access to the surf.
The property is the perfect place for a family, even two families could occupy the two separate spaces. It is comfortable and spacious, with the big yard, outdoor fire pit, small private walking tracks through the bush, organic gardens and much more. And the ample covered deck space is the perfect place to watch the sunset into the sea, day after day.
For Ross and Wanda, it’s time to bid farewell to their cherished space. They hope to pass it on to someone with similar conservation values, who will take full advatange of the beautiful land they have called home for so many years.
The property will be up for auction on Saturday, 14 November, 2015 at 1pm. For more information about the property, contact Julie Hanna at Ray White Raglan, 07 825 8669, julie.hanna@raywhite.com or Blair Hanna blair.hanna@raywhite.com. You can also visit their page on Facebook or on Ray White Raglan.
Karamea Puriri
