Shelly Bay

Did you ever imagine a place where military history meets artistic expression? Right here at Shelly Bay, in Auckland’s eastern suburbs, this unique blend comes alive. Shelly Bay Beach, known for its picturesque sandspit, offers more than just scenic beauty. It holds a captivating narrative woven into the fabric of Auckland’s past. Shelly Bay is nestled along the Hauraki Gulf coast, gracing the edges of metropolitan East Auckland. South of the suburb lies Shelly Bay Beach, a tranquil haven along the shores of the Mangemangeroa Creek. The area holds deep roots in Māori history, as part of the rohe of Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki. Evidence of their presence is etched into the land, with numerous pā sites, middens, and other archaeological treasures scattered throughout the Mangemangeroa Valley. The creek was once a vital source of spiny dogfish, a delicacy for the Ngāi Tai. In more recent times, Shelly Bay transformed into a hub for holidaymakers. In December 1923, the area was subdivided into 42 sections, primarily intended for holiday baches. This vibrant community thrived until the 1970s when Shelly Bay gradually transitioned into a residential suburb of Auckland. Today, Shelly Park, the suburb encompassing Shelly Bay, is home to around 2,850 residents. The area covers 1.23 square kilometers. Shelly Park Beach remains a beloved spot, not just for its natural beauty but also as the starting point of the Mangemangeroa Shelly Park Beach Path, a nature walkway that meanders to Somerville Road. The Shelly Park Cruising Club, established in 1959, adds to the area’s maritime charm, offering dry docking facilities and access to the estuary where boats gently sway on the water. Shelly Bay, a place where history and nature intertwine, offers a glimpse into Auckland’s rich and diverse past.