Emu Rock

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Submerged beneath the waves of the Hauraki Gulf lies Emu Rock. It’s a name that echoes a curious maritime tale. Emu Rock isn’t just a rock. It’s a watery grave for a paddle steamer named Emu. This steamer, one of Auckland’s first ferries, met its end here in 1860. The Emu had journeyed from Melbourne to Auckland, via Nelson. It began a scheduled ferry service to Northcote in May 1860. This was a groundbreaking moment, the first scheduled service to the North Shore. The fare was a shilling each way. But the Emu’s life was short-lived. On October 27th, 1860, while returning from a Hauraki Gulf excursion, disaster struck. The Emu struck rocks near Motutapu Island, sinking rapidly. Captain Kreeft lost everything but the engines. The location of the wreck became known as Emu Bay. The steamer’s namesake, Emu Rock, serves as a silent reminder of Auckland’s early ferry service. It’s a testament to the challenges and triumphs of maritime history in the Hauraki Gulf. The rock, hidden beneath the waves, whispers tales of Auckland’s past. So, next time you’re on the Hauraki Gulf, remember Emu Rock and the little steamer that gave it its name.

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