Welcome to Blockhouse Bay
Welcome to Blockhouse Bay, a beautiful and
diverse suburb of Auckland. Today, we're diving into the pros and cons of living
in this unique community. Whether you're considering a move or just curious
about the area, stick around for some thought-provoking insights. Prefer to watch the video: https://youtu.be/vEwXMoMLdJo
Welcome to our channel where we explore the best
places to live. Today, we're having a fireside chat about Blockhouse Bay. Let's
start with a bit of history. Did you know the name 'Blockhouse Bay' comes from
the blockhouse fortifications built during the New Zealand Wars of the 1860s?
Fascinating, right?
Let's talk about the Pro's of Blockhouse Bay
Firstly, the community here is incredibly
welcoming and diverse. You'll find people from all walks of life living
harmoniously. Blockhouse Bay Primary School, for example, provides excellent
education and supports diverse learners in beautiful surroundings. The school
aims to hook tamariki into learning through authentic, engaging contexts,
making it a great place for families with young children.
Another major pro is the abundance of amenities.
From charming cafes to essential services, everything you need is within reach.
For instance, the Blockhouse Bay Community Centre offers a variety of social,
educational and recreational activities, making it a perfect place to meet new
friends and learn new skills.
The local dining scene is vibrant, with spots
like The Block Cafe and Bay Kabab and Cafe offering delicious meals and a
friendly atmosphere. The natural beauty of the bay and surrounding parks is
another huge plus. Whether you enjoy morning jogs along the beach or picnics in
the park, the outdoor lifestyle here is fantastic.
What about the Con's of Blockhouse Bay?
No place is perfect. One significant downside is
the traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. Commuting to and from the
city can be quite a hassle. For instance, during school drop-off and pick-up
times, roads around Blockhouse Bay Primary School can become heavily congested,
leading to delays and frustration for parents and commuters alike.
Additionally, with the area's growth, there's a
lot of construction happening, which can be noisy and disruptive. Residents
have reported issues with noise from nearby building projects, particularly
during early morning hours. Public transport can also be crowded, making daily
commutes less comfortable.
The Lifestyle
The lifestyle here is laid-back and
community-focused. Local events, like the Blockhouse Bay Village Market, bring
residents together and foster a strong sense of community. The Blockhouse Bay
Community Centre is a hub of activity, offering everything from yoga classes to
art workshops. It's a great place to connect with your neighbours and get
involved in community life.
Th Homes
When it comes to real estate, Blockhouse Bay
offers a mix of modern homes and charming older properties. Prices are
competitive, making it a great option for families and investors alike. For
example, a typical three-bedroom home here might range from $800,000 to $1.2
million, depending on the location and amenities.
The Schools
Education is a strong suit here. Blockhouse Bay
Primary School is known for its warm family atmosphere and its commitment to
engaging, learner-centred education. The school’s approach to learning to read
and write through authentic contexts helps children develop essential skills in
a meaningful way.
The Community
The community spirit shines through in local
events. The Blockhouse Bay Community Centre frequently hosts cultural
festivals, sports events and other gatherings, making it easy to get involved
and stay active. These events are a great way to feel connected and engaged
with your neighbours.
Looking Ahead
Blockhouse Bay faces challenges
like managing growth and infrastructure. However, these also present
opportunities for improvement and innovation. For instance, plans for new
transport links and infrastructure upgrades could alleviate some of the current
traffic issues and make commuting easier for residents.
The Locals Thoughts
Let's hear from some residents about their experiences living in
Blockhouse Bay. This from an interview with a local family 'We moved here three
years ago and absolutely love it. The sense of community is amazing, and the
kids enjoy going to Blockhouse Bay Primary. Sure, the traffic can be a pain,
but the pros far outweigh the cons.' Or ‘Grant
Hackett has been assisting us with the purchase of a property and we are
extremely pleased to have made his association. He has proved to be very
knowledgeable and transparent about the whole sale process. Grant has very
patiently answered our many questions in a prompt manner. Apart from his
professionalism, we have thoroughly enjoyed his sense of humour, which has made
the entire process a stress-free one for us’
Healthcare and Local Businesses
Healthcare facilities are easily accessible,
with several clinics and pharmacies in the area. Local businesses also thrive,
providing a range of services and contributing to the community’s vibrant
economy.
Summing Up
So, there you have it – the pros and cons of
living in Blockhouse Bay. It's a vibrant, diverse community with a lot to
offer, despite a few challenges. If you're considering making Blockhouse Bay
your home, I'd love to help you navigate the real estate market.