Verve hops aboard the ferry for a chinwag with legendary local realtor, Sherryn El Bakary of Bayleys Waiheke.
What drew you to work in real estate on Waiheke, and what do you find most special about it?
My last career took me all over the world for many years when I was based In London. I was so happy to return to my home on Waiheke 30 years ago. Realising that it was an undiscovered gem, I felt that I was the right person at the right time to market and sell properties and that real estate would be the ideal career for me.
Can you share some of the unique aspects of working in the property market on Waiheke?
Many Kiwis returning after the pandemic wanted to be close to a major city, with good weather, good broadband, and good schools their children could walk to ‘bare feet’, with a safe, caring community. The fact that Waiheke has world-renowned vineyards and restaurants added to the attraction! This led to a surge in demand for family homes. The challenge was to find properties to sell, and this is only just changing since the election.
Can you tell us about the island’s sense of community and local culture?
I’ve been a member of the Waiheke Rotary Club for 14 years, involved in fundraising projects such as the Onetangi Beach Races to raise significant funds for the community. The schools have benefited, and we have installed 48 AED defibrillators, donated equipment to the Waiheke Medical Centre, and providing food packages to underprivileged families at Christmas. In 2016, when I was president, the Rotary installed the Westpac Helicopter helipad, saving the community over $100,000.
What’s the most memorable property you’ve listed on Waiheke?
There was an elderly property on a sizeable site at the end of Kennedy Point with views that made you feel like you were on the Titanic! I sold It again a few years later to a dear friend returning home from a glamourous life in Hollywood. She hired an architect to design a magical home which incorporated part of the old house.
Could you tell us about your involvement with the Waiheke Rat Programme and its importance in preserving the island’s unique environment?
I was inspired after reading an article about how Miramar was trying to eliminate the rats. I contacted many specialists, including Goodnature and Waiheke Rat Busters, and approached everyone in my street managing to get 44 out of 50 properties to take some form of device. The change in birdlife is obvious and I’m regularly emailed by neighbours to say they feel like they’re in the tropics being awaken by birdsong!
What motivates you to keep working, and what advice would you offer to those considering a similar path?
I’ve had exceptionally great health all my life and am blessed with more energy than most my age, with a continued passion for finding the right property for the right buyers. My memory hardly lets me down – I can tell stories about the past and what it was like when I bought my section 50 years ago here in Shelly Beach Road. Also, being part of the fantastic family business of Bayleys helps!
Any special plans for the summer?
I’m joining my family in Napier for Christmas like I did last year and can’t wait!
