Initially named Parkview Birkdale’s story begins in 1889. That’s when the Birkenhead Borough Council decided on a name change. They chose Birkdale after a similarly named suburb in England. This small Auckland suburb nestled between Birkenhead and Beach Haven has a rich history. It’s a history often overshadowed by its larger neighbours. But Birkdale has its own unique charm and fascinating past.
Think of the early European settlers. They arrived hoping to build a life here. They faced challenges. The heavy clay soil made traditional farming difficult. The dense bush was a major obstacle. Clearing the land was backbreaking work. Early settlers often lived in simple one-room homes called nikau whares. These were constructed with sod walls and thatched roofs.
Yet even in these harsh conditions success stories emerged. Birkenhead became known for its fruit orchards. Henry Hawkins established one of the first. There are differing accounts of its precise location. Some say it was near Soldiers Bay. Others place it on the ridge where Birkenhead Avenue now runs. It’s possible both accounts are true. The Balmain Estate subdivided and sold covered a large area. This included both locations.
The area wasn’t always easy. The rich soil proved ideal for growing strawberries. By the 1880s thirty orchards dotted the landscape. Strawberry picking became a significant part of the local economy. Even Birkdale Primary School was known for its leniency on homework during the harvest. The fame of Birkdale’s strawberries spread. People from Auckland would take the ferry to enjoy strawberry afternoon teas. This economic boost attracted more settlers. Birkenhead including Birkdale became a borough. Its first mayor was Charles Button.
Kauri gum played a role too. This resin found around kauri tree roots was valuable. It was exported extensively. The gumdiggers who harvested it often lived in temporary shelters. Their work was hard and poorly paid. Yet for a time the search for kauri gum even became a weekend pastime for Aucklanders. They took the ferry to Birkenhead to search. It became such a problem that local authorities imposed controls.
Eventually the gum ran out. The last permit was issued in 1931. Birkdale’s story shifted to entrepreneurs families and a sugar factory. World War II brought further changes. Part of the Kauri Point Domain became a defence area. The carefree days of summer campers ended. The area became a naval storage facility. Today Birkdale is a thriving suburb. It holds a rich history of challenges successes and adaptation. It’s a story worth remembering.