Beyond Plimmerton lies a hidden gem. That gem is Hongoeka Bay. Hongoeka is more than just a residential area. It’s a place steeped in history and culture. It offers stunning views of the rugged coastline. From here you can see Whitireia and Mana Island. On a clear day, you might even glimpse the South Island.
Hongoeka has likely been occupied by Ngāti Toa since the 1820s. Perhaps even since the battle of Waiorua in 1824. That battle secured Te Rauparaha’s position on Kapiti Island. The area was desirable. It was good for cultivation. The shores provided an abundance of kai moana. That means seafood. According to Maori Land Court minutes, Te Rauparaha gifted Hongoeka to his older brother. That was Watarauhi Nohorua. He also gifted it to his wife Miriama Te Wainokenoke. They were of Ngāti Haumia hapu of Ngāti Toa.
Missionary Octavius Hadfield visited the village in 1839. Thomas Bevan also visited in 1844. Bevan wrote about seeing old-time kaingas. Those were Hongoeka, Motuhara and Turikawera. He saw them while climbing from above Plimmerton.
Some Ngāti Toa retreated to Hongoeka after the Wairau Affray. Government Official Clarke reported on a meeting. Acting Governor Shortland met with Te Rauparaha and Rawiri Puaha. All Ngāti Toa from the Cloudy Bay area were there. This happened at Hongoeka immediately after the incident on August 16, 1843.
Hongoeka formed part of a reserve. It was one of three set aside for the perpetual benefit of Ngāti Toa. This was part of the Porirua Deed 1847. It followed the Crown’s acquisition of Porirua in 1847.
Hongoeka was officially named on December 16, 2010. It became an official geographic locality.
Hongoeka Marae is a significant meeting place for Ngāti Toa. The wharenui is called Te Heke-mai-raro. It opened in 1997. The marae connects to the Tainui waka. It also connects to the maunga Whitireia. The awa Kenana and the moana Raukawakawa are also connected.
Today, Hongoeka remains an active community. It blends history with modern life. As you stand here, imagine the generations. They have lived on this land. They have cherished its resources. They have maintained their traditions. Feel the connection to the past. Feel the spirit of Ngāti Toa. Hongoeka Bay is not just a place. It’s a story etched in the landscape. It is a living testament to resilience and heritage.