Craigavon Park

Did you ever hear of a department store magnate who gifted a park? Well, right here, before us, lies Craigavon Park. This beautiful green space, a mix of native bush and grassy clearings, owes its existence to the generosity of Marianne Caughey, co-founder of the iconic Auckland department store, Smith & Caughey’s. Craigavon Park, nestled between Blockhouse Bay and Green Bay, officially became a public space in November 1929. It was a gift from Marianne to the city of Auckland, a place where residents could enjoy the outdoors. The park’s name, Craigavon, is a nod to Lord Craigavon from Ireland, Marianne’s birthplace. It’s more than just a pretty space, though. Craigavon Park holds a personal connection to Marianne and her late husband, William Henry Smith. They cherished this land, using it for camping trips and recreational outings with their son. They even planted some of the trees that still stand here today. Imagine them picnicking in that central grassy area, surrounded by the pines Mr. Smith planted. Originally, the park spanned 30 acres and was easily accessible from Portage Road. This road, by the way, follows the historic Whau Portage, an ancient Maori route where canoes were carried between the Whau River and the Manukau Harbour. Craigavon Park also offered easy access to the nearby Green Bay beach, making it an idyllic escape for city dwellers in the 1920s. Marianne envisioned a self-sustaining park. She thought the steady stream of visitors would keep it pristine. Sadly, that wasn’t the case. The park became overgrown and neglected, a far cry from her initial vision. By 1930, it was clear Craigavon Park needed help. Landscape architect Fred Tschopp was brought in to create a new design. His plan involved clearing overgrown areas, planting trees, and establishing pathways. The park we see today, with its walking tracks, fitness stations, children’s playground, and off-leash dog areas, is a testament to Marianne’s original gift. It’s a thriving recreational hub. It’s also a living reminder of the woman who made it all possible, a department store magnate with a heart as big as the park itself. Craigavon Park stands as a beautiful legacy of her generosity and foresight.