The Circle (90 Kitchener Road)

The circular apartment building peering out above the trees across the road was built in 1968 and was the first apartment tower in New Zealand to have 360° views. It took two years to build and is 11 storeys high with 12 apartments. Named The Circle, it was built on the site of Maratea, the Goldie family’s summer house.

Charles Goldie, the acclaimed painter of Māori portraits, made considerable use of the studio his father had built for him there. Tales of parties and weekends held at the house have become legend among Shore residents. Two Norfolk pines, traditionally planted in pairs, were retained when the ageing house was demolished to make way for The Circle. However, lightning struck one of the pines in 1969, so only one can be seen standing tall, as if its competing in height with The Circle.

Turn right and walk down Muritai Road.