Holder Lookout

From this vantage point at Holder Lookout, the Waitematā Harbour stretches out before us like a shimmering tapestry. This place, Holder Lookout, isn’t just a scenic overlook. It’s a portal to a story of resilience, a testament to the enduring spirit of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei. Holder Lookout sits on Takaparawhau / Bastion Point. This land has witnessed centuries of history, from Māori occupation to colonial disputes and the landmark Bastion Point protest. Originally, the eastern part of this area was called Kohimarama, meaning “to collect remnants/wood chips,” while the western side was Takaparawhau. European settlers later renamed Kohimarama to South Head, and the entire area became known as Bastion Point, after a nearby rock that has since been leveled. Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, the original inhabitants, still call it Takaparawhau. This land holds deep cultural significance. It overlooked fertile fishing and farming grounds, vital resources for the iwi. The struggle for Takaparawhau / Bastion Point began in the 19th century, as the New Zealand government began acquiring Māori land. Despite legal battles and petitions, the government eventually took control of almost all the land, including Bastion Point, which was gifted to the Auckland City Council in 1941. The protests of the 1970s, led by Joe Hawke, are etched into the memory of this place. For 506 days, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei occupied the land, building a marae and homes, cultivating gardens. The occupation ended with a forceful eviction. Yet, the struggle wasn’t in vain. In 1988, the land was returned to Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei. Joe Hawke, the leader of the protest, was later laid to rest here, on the land he fought so hard to reclaim. From Holder Lookout, we can appreciate the beauty that drew people to this place for generations. We can also feel the weight of history. Takaparawhau / Bastion Point is more than just a beautiful view; it’s a symbol of the ongoing struggle for recognition and the enduring connection between people and their land.