16 Major Bridge Drive, Russell, Far North

A creative legacy on the waterfront

This remarkable waterfront property carries a deep connection to the ocean, shaped by history, creativity and a true coastal way of life. In the 1800s, this stretch of shoreline was home to a naval dockyard, giving rise to the name Major Bridge Drive. Generations later, the legacy continued through owner Dennis Brown, a master boat builder who constructed and launched his vessels from the property, making the most of its easy access to the beach.

Overlooking, and with direct access to Matakaraka Bay (meaning “orange face”), the home enjoys a prized nor east aspect. Dennis' wife, an artist, designed the striking lounge window as a reflection of a June sunrise. Framing glowing morning light, this window remains one of the home's standout features.

Today, the home is as cosy and character‑filled as ever, with a thoughtfully quirky layout across two levels. On the ground floor, a generous open‑plan kitchen and dining area connects to a sunny lounge, flowing seamlessly to a large deck overlooking the bay and your own mooring, a true front‑row seat to waterfront living.

This level also includes a bedroom and bathroom, along with a study and laundry, providing flexibility for everyday living.

Upstairs, a second bedroom with guest toilet is linked by a light‑filled bridge to its own lounge. Glass balustrades enhance the sense of openness throughout, while the bedroom's private balcony offers elevated sea views.

Just off the kitchen, a barn door opens to a sheltered, covered outdoor entertaining space, ideal for relaxed gatherings year‑round.

Beyond the home itself, the property offers further lifestyle highlights.

Below the house you find plenty of storage, a creative yoga nook and an outdoor bath and shower.

What was once Dennis Brown's boatshed is now an unconsented sleepout with bathroom, ideal as a guest retreat, artist's studio, teenage hideaway or creative space.

A well‑established path leads gently across the reserve to the water's edge, where you can swim, launch a paddleboard or row out to your boat waiting on its own mooring.

The setting is completed by lush native bush surrounds and an impressive collection of fruit trees, including plums, apples, feijoas, persimmons, lemons, mandarins, guava and banana. At night, the call of Kiwi can be heard around the home.

Parking is well catered for with a single garage at street level, a solid double carport above the home, and a recently concreted driveway for ease of access.

This is the waterfront lifestyle you've been waiting for: golden sunrises, direct beach access, a serene coastal setting and a rich sense of history that makes this home truly special.

Come and experience a whole new way of living.