The perfect lawn of the oval at Launch Bay is waiting patiently. In the 1930s it saw garden parties and military parades. This spring, revitalised, it will host families, cyclists, walkers and joggers, all of whom will appreciate its harbour views and close proximity to the markets, cafés and bars of Catalina Bay. 

The subdivision element of Launch Bay is now complete with all administration details ticked off. “The process up until the completion of this step takes a significant amount of time and resources, so where we are now is an exciting place to be,” says Oliver Leighs, general manager of Winton. “With all landscaping and public areas now finished and being beautifully maintained, the personality of the Launch Bay community is starting to shine through on what was a construction zone not that long ago. We’re always proud of the comments we receive from visitors about the quality of what has been done so far.”

The picture-perfect Officers Houses with their spacious sections and rich historical features are attracting a lot of attention and just two now remain unsold. Their setting on the cliff-top is superb, with views through ancient pohutakawa to the wharf and yachts on the harbour. With the exteriors renovated to a high standard, buyers are able to design the interiors to suit their own needs.

Across from them, and also enjoying that sea view, is the show home for the ‘Oval Houses’. There’ll be twelve of these beauties overlooking the green and out to sea. The construction of the next three Oval Houses is about to start, so by the second quarter of 2020 half of the green will be framed by these homes. Visitor interest is strong, with an average of 25-30 groups through every weekend, according to Bayleys agent Kirsten Bishop. 

Kirsten says people are commenting on the feeling of space in the show home – there’s a high stud downstairs which comes as a welcome surprise. The master bedroom upstairs has been also been delighting viewers – it’s big, with exceptional views, a large walk-in wardrobe and luxe ensuite. “They love the interior design by Stewart Harris of Macintosh Harris Design too – visitors often ask about the colour palette,” she says.

The oval has laneways which will link it directly to the ferry, the busy hub of Catalina Bay and the coastal walkway. Architect James Wallace of Studio Architects (designers of Launch Bay) said in a recent Herald article that these lanes are the “critical glue” of the neighbourhood, building the community by encouraging residents to “walk, bike, bump into each other.” 

He says Aucklanders are starting to understand that urban living has changed. “People are more familiar with medium density housing, and have seen how good architect-designed living can be. They get it now - you can use these great public spaces that you don't have to mow.”

We get the feeling that Launch Bay’s pristine oval will now always be perfectly mown and looking its best – ready and waiting to host lifetimes of conviviality. 

www.winton.nz/launchbay

Kirsten Bishop T: 027 660 6446