[Aydon]

Might be moving from Chch to Auckland due to a great job offer. We love Chch and like the rurality (??) of the place. I haven't been North, but I understand that Auckland is more city than Rural. Assuming I am working in CBD would Birkenhead be commutable? And anyone know what it's like? I hear North Shore is nice, but really don;t know anything about Auck so any tips would be appreciated :)

[backtonz]

Rural and still commuteable to CBD is a bit hard to find in Auckland. It really depends on your other priorities - schooling, security, other facilities etc.

North Shore and Whangaparaoa are lovely. This is our second stint in NZ and we simply wouldn't go anywhere else in Auckland. But everybody's situation is different.

Happy to help.

[jubjub]

You could look east to Maraetai & Beachlands, there is a ferry from Beachlands to the CBD, and its a twenty min drive into the edge of Auckland city for decent shopping at Botany, or a further 10 mins for the new Sylvia Park.

It fairly pricey property wise though...

[Oregonkiwi]

West Auckland is more rural - e.g. Waiatarua, Oratia, Swanson. The train goes to the CBD from Waitakere through Swanson, Ranui, Henderson, Glen Eden etc.
http://www.maxx.co.nz/train.html

[gil]

Great news about the top job offer Aydon :raebanana If you can get your mitts on a copy of Where to Live in Auckland, it's really helpful. Still not there, so can't be of any real help sorry :(

Love to Mrs A too,
Gil

[jaycee]

Maybe it depends on your definitions of rural and commutable. I think my house at Piha is definitely, officially, rural (no public transport, no mains water/sewerage) and although I'd consider it within commuting distance to the city, others probably wouldn't. I'd agree with Oregonkiwi about Henderson and Oratia - the right side of the Waitakere Ranges - right as in 'east' and 'easy' ;)

I agree Aydon, the combination of a rural home life with a short commute to work is a perfect situation if you can find it - hope you do :)