THE Raby clan have put their immense five bedroom double terrace home in the heart of funky Parnell on the market with Ray White Parnell City Realty Ltd.While 469 Parnell Road, Parnell has been home to Annabel and Jon Raby and their five children for the last 12 years, it was previously home to two brothers of New Zealand rock royalty, Split Enz.“Jon bought the house in 2005 from the Chunn family, who brought up their family there for many years. Their son Mike Chunn was in the New Zealand band Split Enz and we understand they practised upstairs in the house,” Ms Raby said.“Mr Chunn had an allergy clinic operating from the building at some stage.”The Raby family’s four older children have all attended Auckland University and have enjoyed the close proximity to the campus by being able to walk or catch the bus there.“We have enjoyed living in the Parnell area which is close to Auckland Domain and have enjoyed picnics in the park, the Farmer’s Market, library and many cafes and restaurants,” Ms Raby said.“A convenient location, close to shopping in both Newmarket and Parnell Village and now Orakei Village.“Jon has enjoyed an easy 10-15 minute drive to work in the CBD and we enjoy the Parnell community lifestyle.“We love the character of the home and have spent many happy occasions in the garden enjoying a BBQ and drinks in the sun, or pottering in the garden. It's like having our own secret oasis in the city.”The Raby family have already moved to another home in Parnell as they downsize.Their elder children have all left home except for 9-year-old Isabella and Charlie, their two year old pug.“We had thought about doing a full renovation of 469 but by chance found a newly built home in the area and decided to sell 469 so we could focus on building our beach house at Matapouri.” Ms Raby said.
Marketing agents Lisa and Steve Stone of Ray White Parnell said 469 Parnell Road was “quite an iconic building on the main street of Parnell”.“It's actually a double terrace and has a beautiful courtyard out the back which is super private and peaceful,” Ms Stone said.“It is one of those buildings that you drive past and always think what a great building and wonder what they are like inside.“To find out it was actually two of the three terraces was a great surprise. But the surprises don’t end there.“The rooms are spacious - all five bedrooms, plus separate dining, a double length lounge, plus informal lounge and two conservatories and then of course there is the stunning courtyard outside where you could easily forget that you are in the middle of the city.”Ms Stone said this fabulous family home was full of character and lends itself to a makeover to make it even more fabulous giving you the opportunity to add real value. Alex TilburyRay White Media Manageratilbury@raywhite.com+61 413 842 112
