Just spent a morning house hunting on the north shore. Very disappointed every house was badly overlooked down a right of way that required a 15 point turn to get into and then the smell of damp hits you when you do finally get to the house. you certainly get more for your money the further up the north shore you can go but anywhere with spitting distance of the city or bridge is very poor. A view comes with a million $$$ price tag. We were looking in Takapuna and Milford.
Go for the good school zones if you can though as you are always guaranteed a market but make sure it has 3 and preferably 4 good sized bedrooms. Dont buy in a dip, dont touch "harditex" exterior, and dont buy any house without eaves. This is what we have picked up from our friends. Most importantly study the Lim report and get a full building inspection.
Michelle