Feature article

Country home with private airstrip and hangar was once a field of onion

Former onion field transformed into a country estate with a private airstrip, hangar and pool.

Colleen Hawkes
Last updated: 12 May 2026 | 3 min read
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This unique Pukekohe country estate, built on a former onion field, features a private airstrip and hangar designed for a Warbirds pilot's Tiger Moth.

The expansive 640m² home offers four bedrooms, multiple living areas, and a large kitchen that opens to a landscaped pool. The attached hangar provides secure aircraft storage or potential for a multi-car garage.

Listed with Scott McElhinney of Barfoot & Thompson, this 6.71ha property offers an unparalleled lifestyle for aviation enthusiasts or families seeking space.

The house is connected to the hangar and a large workshop. Photo: Barfoot & Thompson

Wayne Edwards was a Warbirds pilot who restored his own bi-plane - the Tiger Moth is usually kept in a hangar at his father’s home in Whitianga. Photo: Barfoot & Thompson

A huge tilt door closes off the hangar as required. Photo: Barfoot & Thompson

Post-and-rail fences separate the curving driveway, which has been landscaped with low-maintenance landscaping. Photo: Barfoot & Thompson

Polished concrete tiles feature throughout the foyer and family living area beyond. Photo: Barfoot & Thompson

A kitchen framed by countryside views

The large curved bay window wraps the living space in natural light, while blue cabinetry and a bold red tiled splashback bring warmth and personality to the kitchen.

Alfresco living is taken for granted. Photo: Barfoot & Thompson

There are several seating areas in the house - this is the family living space. Photo: Barfoot & Thompson

And this is the formal living area, which also opens out to the pool terrace. Photo: Barfoot & Thompson

Perfect for teens or extended family - the recreation room has its own kitchenette. Photo: Barfoot & Thompson

While the property is well suited to keen aviators, it could lend itself to other potential uses. Photo: Barfoot & Thompson

With the massive tilt door of the hangar closed, the property can be neatly locked up. Photo: Barfoot & Thompson

This drone shot indicates the boundaries of the 6.71ha block. Photo: Barfoot & Thompson

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Colleen Hawkes Colleen Hawkes
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