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Last of the big sites: Will this grand old villa vanish?

Rare Parnell villa for sale as buyers favour renovation over redevelopment.

Colleen Hawkes
Last updated: 23 July 2026 | 3 min read
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A rare Edwardian villa at 3 Cowie St, Parnell is for sale, offering a unique opportunity on a 923m² section. The 116-year-old home has no heritage protection, and its Terraced Housing or Apartment Buildings zoning allows for significant redevelopment.

Despite its development potential, listing agents at Bayleys Remuera report that interested parties are favouring renovation over demolition. The property is expected to sell for upwards of $4 million, presenting a chance to either develop or preserve a grand family home.

Close to Parnell Rd, the Auckland Domain and Museum, the property is highlighted at the bottom of this photo. Photo: Bayleys

The villa is the largest unsubdivided residential site in the street. Photo: Bayleys

The house is built from solid kauri and all the original features have been retained. Photo: Bayleys

A Look Inside the Historic Villa

The owners say the house has been filled with music over the years. Back in the day, formal dining rooms were large enough to host serious dinner parties.

This room has been a cosy home office. Photo: Bayleys

The kitchen and family living area opens to the rear deck. Photo: Bayleys

Sun streams into the front bedrooms on the upper level, where a balcony provides pretty views. Photo: Bayleys

The listing agents say interested parties have so far talked about a renovation, not a relocation or demolition. Photo: Bayleys

There are two bathrooms in the house, one on each floor. Photo: Bayleys

And this is the bar built within the former wash house out the back. Photo: Bayleys

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Colleen Hawkes Colleen Hawkes
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