[UktoKiwi]

Hi
We will soon be in NZ and seem to have decided on one of
Howick, Chatswood or Albany.
We do not want to be remote nor secluded.
We have very young children.
We have good budget for house.
Any opinions or comments are most welcome
Thanks

[backtonz]

http://www.albanycity.co.nz/

The website details the vision for Albany...

[Stapleton-Gray]

Hi UktoKiwi

We bought our house in Albany at the beginning of the year. Not moved in yet, we are still in UK, but plan to be there next month. We think Albany is just lovely, its quite enough to have some peace and quiet yet close enough to takapuna and other areas if you want a lively time! So best of both worlds, also the house we have bought is very new and absolutely lovely. And the area is not to over corwded with houses.
We aren't a family, so not sure on the area for kids, but there is a school there so imagine there will be a few kids in the area!
Good Luck

[David with a dream]

We spent some time visiting shops and kids play areas (take the kids to Chipmonks soft play area, great flat white coffee's and BLT's!) in Albany. It seems like an ok place and only a stone throw from the city. You have no drive at all to be on some fantastic beaches......Can not help with the other places but I am sure you will make the right choise :nice1 ....David.......