Glen Eden Exposed: The Good and Bad
Welcome to Glen Eden, a hidden gem in the west of Auckland. Prefer to watch the video: https://youtu.be/nAp5hmjyTt8
Today, we're diving into what makes this suburb
unique, exploring both the pros and cons of living here. Glen Eden is known as a vibrant community, with
a rich history, and scenic beauty. But it has it’s darker side, so is it the
right place for you? Let's find out.
The Community
Glen Eden offers plenty of outdoor activities, from hiking in the Waitākere Ranges to enjoying sports at schools, local parks and recreation centres. Looking for job opportunities? Glen Eden has a range of jobs, especially in the sport and recreation sectors, with numerous vacancies available. Looking for job opportunities? Glen Eden has a range of jobs, especially in the sport and recreation sectors, with numerous vacancies available.
Parking in Glen Eden can be a mixed experience.
Residential areas are generally fine, but commercial zones can get busy, so
plan accordingly.
While not directly on the coast, Glen Eden residents can easily access stunning west coast beaches like Piha and Muriwai for surfing and relaxation.
The suburb boasts a variety of churches and
community centres, serving as hubs for social events, support services, and
volunteer opportunities.
The History
Discover Glen Eden's hidden gems like the
historic Waikumete Cemetery and vibrant local. Glen Eden has a rich history, originally known
as Waikumete, with significant landmarks and heritage sites that tell its story. The association of its
early name, Waikumete, with the nearby cemetery was one reason residents
pressed for a change of name. The council agreed and Glen
Eden was chosen, firstly because the chairman of the council came from Mount
Eden, and secondly because of the beautiful valleys and orchards in the
district.
Orchards were planted from 1853 onwards around
various sites in Glen Eden, but failed to prosper until the early 1900s, when
Dalmatian immigrants entered the sector. The completion of the railway from central
Auckland to Henderson in 1881 encouraged the growth of settlements beside the
line, including Glen Eden,
In the 1950s and 1960s building companies like
Neil Homes providing low-cost houses for new homeowners arrived making first
homes affordable. The cultural scene in Glen Eden is vibrant, with
local events, festivals, and arts reflecting the diverse population and strong
community spirit.
The Bad
However, there are also
reasons why Glen Eden might not be the perfect fit for everyone. Traffic can be a significant issue, especially
during peak hours, making commutes to central Auckland challenging. The local infrastructure is older, with slower
development compared to other areas, meaning fewer new facilities and amenities.
Additionally, while generally safe, some
residents express concerns about specific areas, particularly at night. It is important to research specific streets and
areas when considering moving to Glen Eden.
The Property Demographics
The suburb features a mix of older homes and
modern townhouses, catering to a diverse range of residents. First-home buyers find Glen Eden attractive due
to its affordable housing options, with median prices ranging from $530,000 to
$900,000. Established families are drawn to the good
schools and community amenities, while downsizers appreciate the peaceful
environment and smaller homes. The suburb also supports solo parents with its
community resources and affordable housing.
So is Glen Eden right for you?
In conclusion, Glen Eden offers a blend of
natural beauty, community spirit, and convenience, making it a great choice for
many. However, consider potential drawbacks like
traffic, older infrastructure, and safety concerns before making your decision.