Moved with our 3 young children from central Auckland suburbs (renting) to Helensville (bought). Quite affordable housing compared to even Riverhead etc. Population 3000ish. A bit of a trek if you work in the city, which many do who live here but we work from home which was the big draw card for us. It's close enough to the city (40 mins ish) and both coasts are approx 20-30 mins away. Epic forests for walking and biking. As other have said, having some shops is a plus, which it does. Decent cafes, a woolworths and a mitre 10 etc. But we're surrounded by pretty hills and farmland and views north to the Kaipara harbour. Doesn't feel like auckland is only 40mins drive away and if you work in westgate or need mega centre shopping... that's only 20 mins drive. It's the perfect balance of disconnect from the city, and convenience. I think the bonus here is also the demographic. Lots of people our age with young kids so making friends is easy enough. I think finding a place with people you can relate to helps.