Positioned in between Matapaua Bay and the never-to-be-developed Sandy Bay in the Coromandel’s expansive Mercury Bay, The Glades is a prime piece of real estate like no other in Aotearoa. The 100-acre coastal paradise comprises 80 acres of native coastal bush laced with shady walking trails, all overlooking the crystal waters that once so captivated Captain Cook that he set down anchor for a fortnight. The balance of the property is divided into 14 fully serviced, perfectly positioned sites, some of which are still available, awaiting loving owners. Verve sat down with property owner Bryan Storey to find out more.
“The Coromandel is internationally-acclaimed, with some of the most spectacular beaches in the entire country,” smiles Bryan. “This is really is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity—the sections won’t be available for long due to the current interest.”
And that’s no exaggeration. Since taking over the idyllic gated enclave in July, Bryan has already sold six sites.
“Such opportunities to buy such private properties are fading in New Zealand due to restrictions imposed by local authorities regarding consent to subdivide,” he continues. “This spot was nine years in the making and was previously owned by David Bisley—it had been in his family for 50-plus years.”
Similarly, Bryan says this is an investment for buyers’ families and their future generations, to “create a legacy” while becoming “guardians of protected coastal covenanted native bush”.
“It appeals to people right across the board, from retirees to young families looking for a holiday retreat—who’ll then likely retire here one day themselves,” he says. “The Glades will especially attract those that are interested in nature—the 80 acres of coastal native bush is owned equally by all of the residents. It’s full of kiwi and other native birds and all that is New Zealand.”
What are the amenities like?
“Luke’s Kitchen is within five or six kilometres of The Glades. The eatery is a Coromandel icon, renowned for its pizzas and fusion dining. It’s a real favourite weekend hangout among the locals and tourists alike. Next door to that is a fire station and a superette.”
Onsite, the infrastructure consists of a wastewater treatment plant, underground power and telephone lines, and water reticulation serviced by a brand-new water bore.
There are plenty of opportunities to catch your dinner, too—Bryan describes fishing in both bays as “fantastic”.
“One hundred metres from the entrance gate there is access to the beach,” says the owner. “It would be ideal for anyone with Sealegs or a trailer boat—you can drive straight off the beach and into the water in a matter of minutes.”
Though there is no ‘dollar-value’ in terms of building restrictions, structures must be in keeping with the aesthetics of the development and its gorgeous surrounds.
“We don’t insist that everyone must build million-dollar houses or anything like that, but we do ask that the architecture is in keeping with the environment,” says Bryan, “which means incorporating plenty of stone and timbers rather than, say, brick and concrete tiled roofs. All bush and communal areas are managed by a residents’ society.”
Once inside the fully secure, gated grounds, residents then have a free run of the native bush—an absolute “wonderland” for kids and parents alike.
“As well the bush, the owners can come and go as they please straight on to Sandy Bay,” continues Bryan. “The bushline finishes right on the sand.”
Along with the fishing, and bush and coastal walks, Bryan says that there’s ample opportunity for surfing, scuba diving, kayaking, windsurfing, sailing, kitesurfing and general water activities.
“Many of those that have seen the place comment how it reflects back to their childhoods,” he adds, “of magical days spent exploring the Coromandel. We’re inviting others to come and see for themselves.”
The Glades at a Glance
• A coded gate allows access to the 14 sites and native forest which is shared by the residents.
• The pōhutukawa, puriri and nikau trees shelter all manner of endemic birds, including the kiwi.
• The sites range from 1,418sq-m to 3,810sq-m.
• Each site is fully serviced with a wastewater treatment plant, telephone, power and water.
• Walkways lead from the complex straight on to Sandy Bay
• It’s a little over three hours from Auckland and around 30 minutes from Whitianga and Coromandel Town.
Contact
thegladesmatapaua.com
Call Bryan: 021 836 678
Email Bryan: bryan@wgl.nz
