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From landmark shop to family home: ‘It has a great history - lots of people have passed through here.’
The former Ahuriri general store in Napier has been home to Kim Hands for the past 27 years.
AI summary
A landmark former Ahuriri general store in Napier has been transformed into a vibrant five-bedroom home and is now for sale. Over 27 years, owner Kim Hands converted the 148-year-old building, infusing it with a colourful, Frida Kahlo-inspired character.
The spacious property features high ceilings, a private courtyard, and a versatile layout with a potential salon. The owner is subdividing to preserve the historic frontage, offering a unique opportunity to own a piece of Napier's history.
This photograph from the book Port to Port by Don Wilkie shows the store as it looked circa 1878. Published by Ahuriri Publishing Ltd, Napier. Photo: Main photo HBCT; inset photo Don Wilkie Collection
A newspaper advertisement for the old store shows it stocked a wide variety of items; owner Kim Hands hopes the facade will be retained by new owners.
A transition area leads from the bright yellow front door into the living quarters, which reflect the owner’s vibrant personality.
It’s hard to believe the large living area was once the heart of the general store.
The living area opens directly onto the expansive sunny courtyard.
This bedroom also opens onto the courtyard.
The open-plan living area on the second floor is ideal for teens or extended family.
This is the kitchenette on the second floor.
The upstairs bedroom opens to a balcony at the front of the house - the Norfolk pine trees along the Ahuriri waterfront are just one short block away
Pink and green feature in this bathroom, one of three in the house.
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