Kohimarama

What does gathering scattered wood chips from wrecked canoes have to do with a beach in Auckland? Well, here in Kohimarama, the name itself whispers that story. Kohimarama translates to “gathering scattered wood chips,” a poignant reminder of the area’s seafaring past. Kohimarama is nestled between Mission Bay and St Heliers in Auckland’s eastern suburbs. This isn’t just any beach; it’s a place steeped in history, shaped by the tides of time and the hands of both Maori and Pakeha. Kohimarama boasts a stunning beachside walkway that offers breathtaking views back towards downtown Auckland. Kohimarama was once known as Waiparera, meaning “duck water”. It was a haven for the parera, the wild grey duck. Imagine the lagoon and raupo swamp that greeted William Field Porter, the first settler in Kohimarama, when he arrived in 1841. Porter, having missed the first government auction by a mere month, secured his piece of paradise in this then-untamed landscape. Kohimarama beach, the longest in the harbor at that time, was his gateway to a new life. He promptly set about clearing, fencing, and draining the land. Amongst his workers was Thomas Kemp, who would later become a prominent landowner in neighboring Mission Bay. Kohimarama has a population of about 4,400. It’s known for its tranquility, a stark contrast to the bustle of the city center. It’s a popular spot for families and those seeking a peaceful escape. The Kohimarama Yacht Club, established in 1939, is another local gem. It’s a hub for young sailors and a training ground for some of New Zealand’s world-champion sailors. In 1912, the Kohimarama Wharf was constructed, further connecting this idyllic suburb to the wider Auckland community. A tearoom, the first business in Kohimarama, sprang up to cater to the wharf’s visitors. The initial access to the wharf involved a precarious scramble over rocks, prompting the construction of a proper road, now known as Tamaki Drive. For a brief period, from 1892 to 1919, Kohimarama was even known as “Jockey Bay,” serving as a training ground for racehorses. The legacy of this era lingers in the nearby Ronaki Road in Mission Bay, where the stables were eventually relocated. Kohimarama offers a rich tapestry of history, nature, and community. As you stroll along the boardwalk, take a moment to appreciate the pohutukawa trees, preserved by a $10 million project in 2009. Feel the sand between your toes, shipped from Pakiri Beach to replenish the shoreline. Kohimarama is more than a beach; it’s a living testament to Auckland’s vibrant past.