Some views become so familiar you almost forget to stop and look at them.
At 15 Tauroa Valley, that might be difficult.
By afternoon, the light begins to move through the living spaces, catching the lawn, the garden and the landscape beyond. From here, the outlook stretches across Havelock North to the ranges and Ruapehu, with Napier Hill in the distance and a glimpse of the sea.
It is the kind of view that changes subtly through the day - and becomes part of the rhythm of living here.
Simon Clarkson designed the house to make the most of its setting. Low rooflines stretch across the site, while large panes of glass frame the garden and draw the afternoon light deep into the living spaces. From every living area there is something to look towards - lawn, native plantings, sky or the landscape beyond.
There is a lovely contrast between the broad outlook from the living areas and the more sheltered feel of the pool. Surrounded by planting and tucked comfortably into the architecture, it becomes a natural place to spend a summer afternoon.
Inside, the three separate living spaces give the house plenty of flexibility - room to come together, but also places to retreat, read, work or simply sit with the sun and the view.
Four bedrooms, an office and two bathrooms provide plenty of room for family and guests, while four-car garaging adds the kind of practical space that is increasingly hard to find.
Beyond the property itself, Tauroa Valley has its own character. More than 700 native trees and plants have been established throughout the area, creating an environment rich in flora and fauna and attracting native birdlife into the valley.
It gives the area a sense of separation from town that belies how close it actually is - a place where birdsong, established planting and the surrounding landscape are part of everyday life.
Havelock North Village is only a few minutes away by car, while the walking and mountain biking tracks of Te Mata Peak are close enough to become part of everyday life.
It is a rare combination.
Architecture and nature. Privacy and outlook. Space to retreat, but the Village close at hand.
And perhaps that is the real appeal of 15 Tauroa Valley.
Not simply the things the house has, but the things you would get to notice every day.
For a comprehensive property information pack including the title, floorplans and LIM, enter this link into your browser: https://bit.ly/TheLongViewPIP
Method of sale - Deadline (unless sold prior) 12pm Thursday 29th October.
