gazmfc

Hi, we've now been in Auckland (Whangaparaoa) for 2.5years and loved it. However, we're looking for a bit more space and an easier commute to the city, we've been for a look around the area north of Helensville. It looks beautiful but we have some reservations about schooling, possible crime etc. does anyone know the area well enough to offer any advice?
Cheers

j19fmm

Just had Christmas in The 'Ville (and Boxing Day in Whangaparoa)! Cousins live there, up on the hills. Can't help with the schooling as his kids are not school age. Crime? Propbably the same as anywhere else! It's the sort of place people who don't live there are sniffy about but people who live there love it. Land prices are really high round there, but guess still cheaper than in Auckland city, Good luck

gazmfc

Thanks for that, much appreciated.
I think you're right, every time I mention us moving there I get a negative reaction, but we've found the area to be beautiful and a much slower pace of life the on the east coast. Funnily enough we found the land prices to be very reasonable and property is far cheaper than on the peninsula or on the east coast bays.
Thanks again.

Robbo25

I think it's time will come for sure. I love some of the old history surrounding Helensville and the Kaipara area, and couldn't give a wotsit about snuffy people,after all I didn't leave the ridiculous 'Keeping up with the Joneses' mentality in the UK to care about it here. If you find somewhere you love, go for it, but as a curved ball you might want to also consider Warkworth

j19fmm

Nice one