Otahuhu, one of Auckland’s oldest suburbs, was established as a “fencible settlement” in 1849 and has developed into an exciting and multicultural suburb in South Auckland. The ongoing job opportunities in the area attract a large Pacific Island, multigenerational community. Described as the “next Onehunga” Otahuhu is considered one of the most varied and easy-going areas in the country. The recently upgraded main street looks fantastic and is described as “resplendent with giant phoenix palms, cobblestones and some of the best ethnic eating anywhere in Auckland, courtesy of Otahuhu’s large immigrant population.
Access to the southern motorway is good and rail services have improved making it easy to commute into the CBD. Prices in the suburb are still affordable which makes it a popular choice for first time home buyers wanting to get their foot on the property ladder as well as investors looking for good value rental properties. As Otahuhu is situated on an isthmus, there is also the lure of waterfront properties at a reasonable price and access to both the Waitemata and Manukau harbours, and only approximately 400 metres separate them at Portage Rd, Otahuhu.
The Barfoot & Thompson office is strategically situated on Otahuhu’s main shopping street. Our office services the areas of Otahuhu, Middlemore, Otara, Westfield, Favona, Mangere, Mangere Bridge and Mangere East. With plenty of hustle and bustle local residents are spoilt with the convenience of shops for day-to-day products plus banks, a post office, a library and numerous churches reflecting the diversity of this neighbourhood. Every Thursday is market day with fresh produce on sale.
Otahuhu has a number of good primary and intermediate schools including several integrated schools. Otahuhu College, a popular choice for secondary education, and is also one of the oldest schools in Auckland, established in 1931. Kings College, one of New Zealand’s most prestigious private schools also has its home here and just along the road from Kings College is Middlemore Hospital and Kidz First Children’s Hospital.
As an established suburb, there are a number of parks and reserves which are popular with local residents. Many of the parks are busy at the weekend with people playing team sports particularly rugby union, soccer and rugby league in the winter. There are also two golf clubs and for indoor sport there is a recreation and fitness centre.