More about Leonie

Originally from Whangarei, I completed my schooling in Auckland. I worked for NZ Blood Service for over 24 years, originally in the laboratory and then logistics. Changing career in 2000, I joined the New Zealand Customs Services as a Customs Officer working at Auckland Airport for 6 years. Deciding there was more to life than shift work, in 2006, my Husband Steve and I bought the Takeaways in Rawene. We moved North, back to the Hokianga where my family, both Mum and Dad, originated. We enjoyed working together and being our own bosses, the 6-day working week was hard but rewarding. In between burgers, we subdivided our section and relocated a 1910 villa from Auckland onto the land. This of course was complicated. It required an archaeological dig, resource consent, a building consent, lots of meetings with Historic Places, Planners and building inspectors, talking about fenestration and curtilage. It was worth it, we do have a lovely home in the Historic precinct of Rawene. After 11 years we sold the business privately to our employee, who we remain on good terms with. Working part-time in the local pharmacy I was finally able to put names to faces and figure out family connections. When the opportunity came up to work for Haze Real Estate, I was very keen. I love houses. I love seeing possibilities of making houses into happy homes. Having just completed the NZ certificate in Real Estate, I’m excited to get out there and make a difference! I hope to be able to share my passion for the Hokianga with others. The Hokianga Harbour is such a calm, spiritual place that makes breathing so easy. Most properties in the Hokianga have spectacular views, each one just a little bit different. On a personal note, I have 2 daughters, both married, and am lucky enough to have 7 grandchildren. It’s very noisy and there’s lots of laughter when we are all together. I love animals. I enjoy cooking, trying out new recipes, probably with a wine in hand, and when I’m not doing that, I’ll be gazing out over the harbour…