Why Merewether is one of the Hunter's most aspirational suburbs
As laid-back as Newcastle is, every coastal town has that one aspirational suburb – the one where, if you manage to hit a stroke of generational luck, or climb the property ladder and secure your patch, you can say you’ve made it.
For Novocastrians and the wider Hunter region, that suburb is Merewether.
Where surfboards outnumber suits, and the coffee flows as freely as the ocean waves, this once-humble mining village is the undisputed premier beachside suburb.
Here, modern mansions overlooking the ocean gleam from the morning sun, while the streets reveal a smattering of mid-century homes, art deco digs and classic miner’s cottages, luring young families, ambitious professionals and die-hard surfers like moths to a flame.
Family ties among the tides
For two lucky locals, that desire to remain connected to this seaside sanctuary runs deep.
Author Consulting owner Madeline Bunder and her husband, MADE Architectural Constructions director Guy, cherish their beachy ‘burb and its laid-back lifestyle.
“I grew up here, and I couldn’t imagine my two girls growing up anywhere else,” Madeline says. “One local gem I still visit fondly is the Merewether Bakery. Their pies, sausage rolls and cupcakes are legendary.
“And let’s not forget the birthday cakes – I’ve had the same one for 20 years, and now I get them for my daughters to continue the tradition.”
Guy’s architect-designed residences grace some of Merewether’s streets and are a testament to the suburb’s transforming landscape.
The natural beauty of the beach and ocean baths is supplemented by the continued addition to the raft of local boutiques, cafes, bars and restaurants.
“Our best days are spent at Merewether Beach, even on stunning winter mornings,” Madeline says.
“The beach, baths, and rock pools are just the start. Then you have hotspots like Convoy Commune for a casual coffee, The Beach Hotel for dinner and dancing, and Merewether Surfhouse for cocktails with a sunset view.”
Sun, sand and soaring prices
Salt Property Newcastle director Lyndall Allan highlights Merewether’s appeal, noting the suburb’s hot property market and the luxury housing stock that attracts affluent families and executive couples.
“With its long coastline outlook, beach lifestyle, excellent schools and proximity to the CBD, this is undoubtedly Newcastle’s premium address,” she says. “The living experience here is second to none.”
According to the latest Domain House Price Report, Merewether’s median house price has soared 59.8 per cent to $1.758 million in the past five years, driven by the COVID-era exodus from Sydney and Melbourne.
“Merewether became a magnet for city dwellers seeking affordability and a better lifestyle,” Allan says.
“The mix of city conveniences and surfside charm made it irresistible, resulting in a property boom fuelled by that quintessentially Australian beach lifestyle.”
For sale in Merewether
Price guide: $10 million
Expressions of interest
Agent: Salt Property Newcastle, Lyndall Allan 0439 761 123
Perhaps the most grand estate in Merewether, Takamuna – meaning “house on the hill” – covers three lavish levels and comes with a 10-metre swimming pool and a full-sized tennis court. Enhancing its appeal is a modern two-bedroom guest house ideal for multigenerational living.
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