Is Mount Eden Right for You?

Today, we're diving deep into one of Auckland's most fascinating suburbs—Mount Eden. This area isn't just known for its stunning views and historic charm; it’s also home to Eden Park, New Zealand’s most iconic stadium. Whether you’re considering moving here or just curious about what makes Mount Eden tick, this video is for you. We’ll explore its history, its highlights, and even some of its downsides. So, stick around for an in-depth look at why Mount Eden is such an exciting suburb! Prefer to watch the video: https://youtu.be/SYPqqkq44F0

History of Mount Eden

Mount Eden, or Maungawhau, is one of Auckland's oldest and most significant areas. The name 'Maungawhau' means 'Mountain of the Whau tree,' a native tree that once thrived in the area. The suburb is named after the volcanic cone that dominates its landscape—Maungawhau, which erupted around 28,000 years ago. This volcano is one of the many that make up the Auckland Volcanic Field, and its deep crater and steep slopes have become iconic features of the suburb.

The area was originally settled by the Māori people, who built a pā (fortified village) on the summit. This provided a strategic lookout point with views stretching across the isthmus, making it a valuable defensive position. The fertile volcanic soil also made the surrounding land ideal for growing crops.

When European settlers arrived in the mid-19th century, Mount Eden began to transform. The area was subdivided, and it quickly became a desirable place for Auckland’s emerging middle class. Many of the beautiful villas you see today date back to this period, reflecting the Victorian and Edwardian architectural styles of the time.

As Auckland grew, so did Mount Eden. The suburb became increasingly residential, but it retained much of its original charm. The streets are lined with mature trees, and many of the original homes have been lovingly preserved or restored, giving the area a timeless quality.

What Makes Mount Eden So Special?

So, what makes Mount Eden so special? Let’s talk about the features that set this suburb apart.

First and foremost, we have to mention the Maungawhau summit. Standing at 196 meters, it’s the highest natural point in Auckland. The views from the top are nothing short of breathtaking. You can see the city skyline, both harbours, and on a clear day, even as far as the Waitakere Ranges. The summit is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle below.

We can’t talk about Mount Eden without highlighting Eden Park. This is New Zealand’s most famous sports stadium, and it holds a special place in the hearts of many Kiwis. Eden Park has been the stage for countless iconic moments in sports history, particularly rugby and cricket. From hosting the Rugby World Cup to thrilling Bledisloe Cup matches, this stadium is a hub of excitement and pride for both the suburb and the nation.

The presence of Eden Park adds a unique energy to Mount Eden. On game days, the whole suburb buzzes with anticipation, as thousands of fans flood in to watch the action. For sports enthusiasts, living near Eden Park is a dream come true. However, this proximity can be a double-edged sword, as we’ll discuss later.

Mount Eden Village is the heart of the suburb, and it’s packed with character. The village is a vibrant mix of cafes, boutique shops, and restaurants. Whether you’re after a perfectly brewed coffee, a unique piece of art, or some gourmet food, you’ll find it here. The village has a strong sense of community, with regular events, markets, and festivals that bring people together.

Mount Eden is also a hub for Auckland’s creative community. It’s home to several galleries, theatres, and music venues. The iconic Powerstation, one of Auckland’s most famous live music venues, is located here, drawing in big names from both New Zealand and overseas. There’s always something happening in Mount Eden, whether it’s a live gig, an art exhibition, or a theatre performance.

For families, Mount Eden is a prime spot because of its excellent schools. The suburb is zoned for some of Auckland’s top primary and secondary schools, including Auckland Grammar and Epsom Girls’ Grammar School. These schools have a reputation for academic excellence, making Mount Eden highly sought after by families wanting the best education for their children.

Despite being so close to the city centre, Mount Eden has plenty of green spaces. The volcanic cone itself is surrounded by parkland, perfect for walking, running, or just relaxing. There are also several other parks and reserves scattered throughout the suburb, providing ample space for recreation.

What Mount Eden is missing

However, no suburb is perfect, and Mount Eden does have its downsides. Let’s explore what it might be missing.

One of the biggest complaints from residents is the traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. Mount Eden’s narrow, winding streets, while charming, were not designed for modern traffic levels. This can make getting in and out of the suburb a bit of a challenge. Parking is also an issue, particularly in the village area and around Eden Park on game days. With so many people visiting the cafes, shops, and the stadium, finding a parking spot can be a frustrating experience.

Another downside is the cost of living. Mount Eden is one of Auckland’s more expensive suburbs, with property prices well above the city’s average. The charm and amenities come at a cost, and this can make it difficult for first-time buyers to enter the market here. Even renting can be pricey, with demand often outstripping supply.

While Mount Eden is relatively close to the city centre, public transport options are somewhat limited. There are buses, but they can be infrequent, especially outside of peak times. The Mount Eden train station is nearby, but for many residents, it’s still a bit of a walk. This reliance on cars exacerbates the traffic and parking issues.

Another point worth mentioning is the lack of retail diversity. While the village has a great selection of boutique shops, it doesn’t offer much in the way of practical, everyday shopping. For larger grocery runs or more mainstream shopping needs, residents often have to travel to neighbouring suburbs.

The Darker Side of Mount Eden

Now, let’s touch on the darker side of Mount Eden. No suburb is without its flaws, and it’s important to look at these as well.

Mount Eden is generally considered a safe suburb, but it isn’t immune to crime. Like many other inner-city areas, it has seen issues with petty crime, particularly car break-ins and occasional burglaries. The proximity to the city centre means that it can attract some unsavoury elements, especially at night. While the crime rates aren’t alarmingly high, it’s something residents need to be aware of.

Another issue is gentrification. As more people move into the area and property values rise, there’s a risk of Mount Eden losing some of its unique character. The pressure to modernise and develop can sometimes come at the cost of the suburb’s historic charm. There’s been concern among residents that some of the older homes and buildings are being replaced with modern developments that don’t fit with the traditional aesthetic of the area.

Finally, there’s the issue of noise. Being close to the city and having a bustling village and Eden Park means that Mount Eden can be quite noisy, especially on weekends and during major events at the stadium. The sounds of traffic, nightlife, and even the occasional concert or sports event at Eden Park can be heard throughout the suburb. For those seeking a quieter life, this might be a downside.

Does Mount Eden Offer Value for Money?

So, does Mount Eden offer value for money? The answer really depends on what you’re looking for.

If you value being close to the city, having access to excellent schools, enjoying a vibrant community atmosphere, and being near New Zealand’s most iconic stadium, then Mount Eden could be worth every penny. The suburb offers a mix of historic charm and modern amenities that’s hard to find elsewhere in Auckland. The views from the summit, the quality of life, the excitement of Eden Park on game days, and the strong community vibe make Mount Eden a truly unique place to live.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or looking for a quieter, more suburban lifestyle, then Mount Eden might not be the best fit. The high property prices, traffic congestion, noise from events at Eden Park, and occasional crime might outweigh the benefits for some people. It’s a suburb that’s best suited to those who appreciate its unique mix of urban and suburban living and are willing to pay a premium for it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mount Eden is undoubtedly one of Auckland’s most exciting and desirable suburbs. It offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern living, making it a great place to call home. But like any suburb, it’s not without its challenges. Whether it’s right for you will depend on your priorities and lifestyle.

If you value being close to the city, having access to excellent schools, enjoying a vibrant community atmosphere, and being near New Zealand’s most iconic stadium, then Mount Eden could be worth every penny. The suburb offers a mix of historic charm and modern amenities that’s hard to find elsewhere in Auckland. The views from the summit, the quality of life, the excitement of Eden Park on game days, and the strong community vibe make Mount Eden a truly unique place to live.