A ship’s prow jutting out towards the sea. That’s the HMS Achilles Memorial. It stands proudly at Achilles Point overlooking the Waitemata Harbour. This isn’t just any memorial. It commemorates the courageous actions of the HMNZS Achilles and her crew.
In December 1939 the HMNZS Achilles played a pivotal role in the Battle of the River Plate. This epic naval battle saw the Achilles engage the German raider Graf Spee. The battle ended with the scuttling of the Graf Spee. The victory was monumental for New Zealand. The bravery of Captain Parry and his crew became legendary.
On February 23 1940 the men of the Achilles received a hero’s welcome in Auckland. They paraded up Queen Street. A civic reception followed at the Auckland Town Hall. The city rejoiced. Auckland’s pride in the Achilles is palpable. The memorial itself is a testament to this.
Achilles Point itself is steeped in history. It was once known as Te Pane o Horoiwi by the Tainui people. The name Achilles Point was officially bestowed by the Auckland City Council in 1940. This reflects the enduring significance of the naval victory.
The memorial lookout designed as a ship’s bow was unveiled in December 1940. A plaque details the battle’s outcome. It remembers the gallant performance of the HMS Achilles. The bravery of her captain officers and crew are lauded. Two memorial seats were added later. One honors Douglas O Stanley. The other commemorates Private J E Ted Scherer.
The memorial underwent a significant restoration in 2009. This was in time for the 70th anniversary of the Battle of the River Plate. A new plaque names four naval ratings who lost their lives. Three totara pou whenua were added. These acknowledge the Maori heritage of the site. A new ship’s mast was also erected.
Today the HMS Achilles Memorial stands as a powerful symbol. It stands for courage resilience and national pride. It’s a place for reflection. It’s a place to remember those who served. More than just a memorial it’s a poignant landmark in Auckland. A testament to a decisive naval battle and a nation’s valor. It’s a place you won’t soon forget.