Long-time Orewa locals Anne-Marie and Jonathon found their forever home at The Gardens, drawn by the sense of space, community, and calm that defines Kensington Park.

For Anne-Marie and Jonathon, the search for their new home began close to where their hearts already were. Long-time Orewa locals, they knew they wanted to stay in the area — but were looking for something fresh, modern, and surrounded by nature. The first time they drove through Kensington Park, they were immediately struck by its sense of space, connection to native bush, and coastal charm. It simply felt right.

One of the biggest attractions for them has been the convenience of the location. Living at Kensington Park means being able to walk almost everywhere – from the beach to cafés, shops, and walking tracks, creating an easy, everyday rhythm that’s relaxed yet connected. The shared amenities-from the gardens and bush walks to the gym and pool-are an added bonus, giving them the freedom to enjoy the outdoors and stay active without leaving home.

“We just loved the feel of space — being near native bush, near the sea — and aesthetically it looked great,” 
-Anne-Marie

Another key factor in their decision to buy was that Kensington Park isn’t a retirement village, but rather a freehold community where residents retain their capital gains. For a couple who are still working full-time, this made the move even more appealing.

Community has also become an important part of their experience. They’ve found themselves surrounded by friendly, interesting neighbours and a genuine sense of belonging. Even with both working full-time, Anne-Marie and Jonathon make time to catch up with others in their building, enjoying the social connections that naturally form here. “There are some very interesting people who live here, and everyone is lovely,” says Anne-Marie.

“It’s nice to be part of a community where people still stop for a chat.”
-Jonathan

Safety and peace of mind are also major benefits of living at Kensington Park. With Jonathon often away for work, Anne-Marie says she feels completely at ease here, describing it as a place where she feels secure and comfortable, something that gives them both great reassurance. “For me, it’s so important to feel safe when Jonathon’s away,” she says. “And for him, it’s peace of mind knowing I’m in a secure environment.”

Anne-Marie’s background in interior design means she has an eye for detail, and she immediately appreciated the craftsmanship and timeless design of their home at The Gardens. High ceilings, generous windows, and open, light-filled spaces give it a sense of calm and comfort. The interiors’ neutral palette has also allowed them to personalise their space easily, making it truly their own.

Beyond their front door, the beautifully landscaped grounds have become a daily joy. They love wandering the park’s pathways, noticing seasonal changes in the gardens, and listening to the tui and other birdlife. Anne-Marie enjoys tending her two garden plots — just enough to indulge her love of gardening without the full-time upkeep — while Jonathon appreciates the beauty of the surroundings without having to do the hard work.

For both of them, Kensington Park represents balance – quality design, a sense of community, and the quiet beauty of living among nature, all within minutes of the sea. As Anne-Marie puts it, “It’s the quality, quietness, and ambience of the whole park. It’s close to everything we need, and we can’t imagine living anywhere else.”