Glenside
Small, close-knit community with a semi-rural feel
Overview
Perhaps Wellington’s most ‘secret' suburb, Glenside is a small community just east of Churton Park. The area has significant historical links to early Wellington, as it sits about halfway between Wellington and Porirua, a stopping off point for travellers of the time. The area has changed over the years, and now includes a popular cafe and a large townhouse development. The locals are outspoken and protective of the natural environment and historical links that remain.
Best Suited To
Those who enjoy a small community with a strong community focus.
Population Profile
Older homes in this locality tend to house young families or empty nesters. They have a shared appreciation for the peace and quiet associated with the area and its natural surroundings. Conversely, ‘Monterey’, the large townhouse development on Middleton Road, is more likely to house people in the 20 to 35 age bracket, both renters and owner-occupiers.
Typical Homes
The original housing here dates from the 1960s. This is concentrated along the northern section of Middleton Road and on Glenside Road. Most of these homes have been renovated in recent years but maintain their 1960s weatherboard exteriors.
Subdivision has occurred along Middleton Road, and there are a small number of newer dwellings erected on these steeper sites, close to the turn off to State Highway One. The Monterey townhouse complex contains nearly 100 semi-detached units, built in the early 2000s.
Amenities
Once home to a large garden centre (now closed), Cafe Thyme remains and is popular among locals. Other than that, you’ll need to head a few minutes south to Johnsonville, for a full range of shopping services.
There are no schools in Glenside itself; primary schooling provided within adjoining Churton Park. Most secondary students attend Newlands College or Onslow College, both within 10 minutes drive of Glenside.
Glenside was originally called “The Halfway,” as it stands approximately halfway between Wellington and Porirua. A historic house, set close to the cafe, dates from the late 1800s when travellers with horses and carts used the house and location to stop off and rest. The local Glenside community has been active over the last 20 years to preserve the house and the area’s historical significance.
Real Estate Trends
Sales of the original 1960s homes here are quite rare, due to the fact that there are so few of them. Sales over the last two years show prices between $700,000 and $950,000, depending on the size of the house and whether it has been renovated.
Glenside now includes an area of newer housing, essentially a part of Churton Park but falling within the boundaries of Glenside. These new homes sell for typical Churton Park prices or a little less.
The townhouses in the Monterey complex (which enjoys facilities including a tennis court, gym and pool) turn over at regular intervals. Sales have ranged from $300,000 for a one bedroom apartment, up to $600,000 for a two bedroom townhouse.
Best Streets
Not really applicable, as there are only two or three streets. Glenside Road is away from the traffic noise of Middleton Road.
House Prices
Townhouses in Monterey, from $300,000
Older three bed house, from $700,000.
Newer four bed houses, from $1.4 million.
Travel Times
Central city – driving 15 minutes non-peak, 25 minutes peak.
Airport – driving 25 minutes non-peak.
Hutt Valley – driving 20-25 minutes via Ngauranga Gorge
Weather
Glenside is quite sheltered, as it sits below steep hills to the north. Mid-winter shading from the hills can be an issue for some sites, particularly those at the northern end of the suburb.