Bob started off his working life through the 1960’s and 70’s at the ASB Bank, the last three years as Manager of the Royal Oak Branch. Banking did not provide the excitement or lifestyle Bob wanted, so he entered the Real Estate profession in 1976.
After a couple of years with two small agencies, he joined Barfoot & Thompson’s Mission Bay office – probably the second best decision of his life (the best one, of course, was marrying Sue).

Through the late 70’s and early 80’s he became very successful in real estate, completely dominating the sales of the ex state houses in Orakei and Mission Bay. These properties were only worth $30,000 to $40,000 back in those days. He owned one himself, and he and Sue were among the earliest couples to refurbish and enlarge one of these solid little houses in such a prime location. At this time Bob briefly held the company record for the biggest sale, a Paritai Drive mansion which sold for the huge price of $425,000!

Bob was top salesperson at Mission Bay, 13th in the company in 1981, and in 1982 was appointed as Manager of the Panmure office, a position he held for 18 years. During this time the branch doubled in size, to a staff of 16 in sales and rentals. But by the year 2000, he realised that he missed the challenge of selling, and he missed the area he most loved to work – the Eastern Bays, from Orakei to Glendowie.

Bob has had many successful years through the new millenium, and is now among the longest serving members of the Barfoot & Thompson team. Due to his managerial experience, the Directors have often asked Bob to cover as a relief manager at other branches when neccessary.

Bob’s spare time is spent on the water, and through a lifetime of competitive yacht racing, has represented New Zealand year after year in masters sailing. He gives a great deal of time to the administration of his chosen sport, and is on the World Council of the Olympic Laser class, and Club Captain at the local Tamaki Yacht Club.

This lifetime of ensuring everything he does is done properly, means that you can rest assured of dedicated service and advice from Bob Blakey.