Though often mistaken for being an original Clarks Beach homestead, Huntly House has created a legacy all of her own in just eight short years. Primarily a much loved family home, she has also opened her doors to an extraordinary array of visitors. Film crews, weary travellers, excited bridal parties, charities, neighbours, and countless community gatherings.
Many locals have attended events, celebrations, fundraisers and open days within her walls, making her a cherished part of our community’s story.
Her arrival in the district one of Clarks Beach’s recent memorable moments. In 2017, the grand 1911 Victorian villa travelled the length of SH1 in six enormous pieces after being removed from her previous location on James Line in Palmerston North. Residents awoke to the sight of pieces of a sprawling historic villa suddenly standing where only an empty paddock had been the day before. The spectacle sparked curiosity, warmth and a sense of wonder throughout the community.
Over the years that followed, Huntly House’s restoration captured the attention of thousands across social media. People became invested in her revival. Watching each painstaking step as she was rebuilt, refined, and lovingly brought back to full splendour. When Hayley, one of the homeowners, hosted an Open Day partway through the renovation, she expected a handful of curious visitors. Instead, more than 400 people arrived in just four hours.
They came from Whangārei, Taupō, Taranaki and the Bay of Plenty, renovators, villa enthusiasts, families who had once known the home, and those simply drawn in by her charm. Stories were shared, memories resurfaced, and new connections were formed.
One of the most poignant moments in the home’s modern history came when Hayley recently welcomed Hinemoa Taylor, the great-granddaughter of original owner and builder Adam Burges of Huntly, Scotland. The meeting beautifully bridged the home’s origins with its present chapter.
Today, Huntly House stands proud on 8.95ha of gently contoured land overlooking the Manukau Harbour. Spanning 600sqm across three levels, the villa blends heritage character, native timber floors, ornate archways, soaring ceilings, with contemporary comforts. With seven bedrooms, five ensuites, generous living spaces and two self-contained guest suites, the home supports both family living and a thriving boutique accommodation business. The established short-stay income offers potential for further development into weddings, retreats or events.
Now, due to a change in personal circumstances, the long-standing Waiau Beach–Clarks Beach family has made the heartfelt decision to list the property for sale by tender, with open homes each weekend. Huntly House waits patiently for her next custodian, someone ready to embrace a truly one-of-a-kind local treasure.