Looking to invest (likely build or relocatable that I renovate myself) in a block north of Auckland.

Currently I have about 5 years worth of IT work left to make my dream early retirement reality.

I dont mind commuting, I use to drive 2 hours each way in Sydney for work.

What are some of the nicer areas that come to mind?

Im thinking some of the Matakana area beaches, Mangawahi heads is about as far as I could go.

We really wanted to buy into Whangarei Heads or Tutukaka. I sometimes see North Energy Advertising, there are IT jobs up there, its a case of waiting and no guarantees you will get one. Im a BA/SA/PM, mildly technical (ie I got out of technical to avoid having to learn new code or IP tech every 6 months)

All this talk of a train line from BOP and Hamilton to Auckland, i think they missing a trick by not putting a high speed train from Whangarei to Auck. That place is taking off, its been gentrified and the surrounding areas are gorgeous.