214 Clinton-Makaretu Road, Ashley Clinton, Central Hawkes Bay

There's something special and equally exciting about this stunning property. Set amongst beautifully established grounds on the very cusp of town, this superbly configured property offers space in spades and an incredibly versatile layout that opens the timber front door to all sorts of possibilities. At the heart of the home is a glorious, sun-filled open plan kitchen, dining and everyday living space where family life is front and centre. Bathed in sunlight, it opens out to a large deck overlooking the lush grounds and the above-ground pool - the perfect spot for summer barbecues while the kids make the most of long afternoons outdoors. When it's time to retreat, the gracious separate formal lounge provides a second living space, also opening onto a deck. What truly sets this home apart is its clever configuration with a guest suite seamlessly incorporated into the main home, complete with its own entrance, two bedrooms, bathroom and kitchenette. Whether it's independent space for extended family, a teenager's retreat, accommodation for guests, or the opportunity for supplementary income, adding genuine long-term value. The main residence has three double bedrooms, including a lovely master with walk-in wardrobe and doors opening onto the deck while a magnificent family bathroom with a luxurious bathtub and large tiled shower sits adjacent. Practicality hasn't been overlooked either. There's a large separate laundry, excellent heating with a freestanding wood burner and heat transfer system, gas hot water, insulation top and bottom, ceiling fans, and some double glazing. Outside, it just gets even better. A double garage with toilet and large workshop provides plenty of room for projects, storage or hobbies, while bonus extras - including a generator plug for peace of mind during power cuts - speak to the attention to detail that's gone into the property. There's an orchard, sheltered vegetable gardens with raised beds, and beautifully established plantings creating pockets of dappled shade and colour throughout the seasons. All this is set in an exceptional location - positioned along a country road just minutes from town amenities. Properties that offer so much are rare. Once you see it, you'll understand why.

By Negotiation

The sweetest wee thing you ever did see! Every bit the "cottage in the country", complete with traditional front verandah, wide-open rural views and a one-acre rustic garden setting. You can't help but fall completely head over heels here, and that's before you even step in the door! Inside, the old and new have come together beautifully where character features have been lovingly celebrated, and the spaces opened up and modernised for everyday living. Moody colours, textured wallpaper, tongue and groove timber detailing and unexpected pops of personality give the interior a look that is full of soul. The living spaces are generous and light-filled - throw open not one, but two sets of French doors and let summer spill out onto the large deck, or light the free standing woodburner and settle in for winter. The open-plan layout keeps everyone connected, while the bold kitchen makes great use of the space and captures plenty of sun. Two good sized double bedrooms and a tidy bathroom that incorporates the laundry in a clever, space-saving layout. And then there's outside... Soak under the stars in the outdoor bath with plumbed-in hot water, gather around the outdoor fire, potter away in the garden or retreat to the little studio shed. The expansive deck is the place to be when entertaining, and even a powerpoint ready and waiting for a spa pool. Set on an acre (4,011m2), there is room here to create your own little slice of country life. Make the most of the existing fruit trees, plant a vege garden, keep a few chickens or fence off a paddock for a couple of animals. Located in the Flemington community, this is rural living without completely disappearing off the map. Flemington School is just three minutes away, while the nearby polo club adds to the sense of the country lifestyle on offer. You can enjoy the peace, privacy and slower pace of the country while still being only 20 minutes from town. Very rarely do cottages in the country pop on the market - so best be in quick for this!

Buyers $555,000+

Tucked away on a beautifully planted acre high above the Tukituki River in rural Otane, this stunning designer home makes a striking impression from the moment you arrive. There's the park-like setting, beautifully established native gardens, walking access to the river reserve, modern design and, of course, that red front door. Birch ply ceilings with crisp negative detailing, polished concrete floors and perfectly positioned windows and doors create a home that feels completely connected to its surroundings. Sun pours in, the outlook is framed at every turn and the open-plan living space feels far bigger than the footprint suggests. At the heart of it all is a seriously good entertainer's kitchen, while two generous bedrooms offer excellent wardrobe space and their own clever features. The master looks out across the gardens towards the river, while the guest bedroom wardrobe is wired for use as an office or sewing nook. Even the stunning bathroom gets in on the act, with the bath perfectly positioned for soaking while taking in the view. Free-standing Kent wood burner, heat pump, gas hot water and a large double internal-access garage. Outside, the hard work has already been done. The fully fenced 4000m2 grounds have been extensively and professionally planted with maturing native gardens attracting birdlife, to create a landscape that will only become more impressive with time. Three water tanks provide rain and bore water storage, while the peaceful rural setting delivers the kind of tranquillity that's increasingly hard to find, 10 minutes from Waipawa and 15 minutes from Otane. Clever. Beautifully designed. And one of the few with river access. This is one of those properties you simply have to experience for yourself. A must view.

Buyers $795,000+