Whispers from the past surround us. We stand before Mount Victoria Cemetery a tranquil resting place in Devonport.
Established in 1850 this cemetery holds a piece of Auckland’s history. It wasn’t just a burial ground. It was a reflection of the community’s growth. Devonport settlers found their final rest here.
Initially the Crown reserved land when the area was sold for farms. Other interments occurred at nearby churches. In 1854 the Executive Council officially sanctioned the site. The cemetery’s use continued until the 1890s. Family plots even saw burials into the 1930s.
Amongst the headstones lies a remarkable story. Eruera Maihi Patuone a renowned Maori chieftain and peacemaker rests here. He passed away in 1872 at the age of 109. His grave features a simple wrought iron railing and stone plaque. He bridged the gap between Maori and colonists. Other members of his influential family who sold land in Devonport are buried nearby.
Another significant figure is William Oliver. The first settler to acquire land in North Shore City. He died in 1858 and is buried in the Wesleyan/Presbyterian section of the cemetery.
Mount Victoria Cemetery isn’t merely a collection of graves. It’s a living testament to the lives and legacies of those who shaped Auckland. It’s a place to reflect on their journeys their contributions their lasting impact. A silent yet powerful narrative unfolds amidst the well-tended grounds. The stories whispered among these stones are a treasure. Each grave a chapter in the ongoing story of this special place.