Ever stopped to wonder how French Bay / Otitori Bay got its intriguing name? This bay lies in Titirangi on the Manukau Harbour. It sits snugly between Wood Bay and Paturoa Bay.
Long ago, Māori called this place Opou. Opou means “the place of posts.” Then, sometime in the 1920s, it became known as French Bay. The reason why remains a mystery.
In the early 20th century, French Bay / Otitori Bay became a popular spot. Aucklanders would come here for day trips. They sought relaxation by the water.
The artist Colin McCahon lived near French Bay from 1953 to 1960. Many of his paintings feature this very bay. His former home is now McCahon House. It serves as a museum and gallery. You can visit it and see the landscapes that inspired him.
Be aware that the water quality here can vary. In 2020, it was even listed as one of the least safe swimming beaches in Auckland. So, checking conditions before taking a dip is important.
The French Bay Yacht Club is located right here on the beach. Sadly, the club facilities were badly damaged in the 2023 Auckland Anniversary Weekend floods. Despite this setback, the club remains a hub for boating enthusiasts.
French Bay Beach is a small beach. Locals often use it for walks and leisurely boating. Think kayaking or yachting. The shore here isn’t like the fine sands of Piha or Bethells. It’s coarser. Empty oyster shells abound. If you plan to walk on the beach, wear shoes.
Swimming isn’t generally recommended at French Bay / Otitori Bay. But it’s calm during high tide. During low tide, the water recedes far into the Manukau Harbour. This creates vast mud flats.
The name “French Bay” may come from early French explorers. They landed in New Zealand with plans for colonization in the late 1700s. Though those plans were abandoned, the name stuck. Titirangi even hosts a French Market. It sells cheeses, pastries, and other French treats. This market serves as a homage to this history.
The first known Frenchman to visit New Zealand was Captain Jean-François Marie de Surville. He arrived in 1769. He commanded a voyage to explore the Pacific. Surville entered New Zealand waters shortly after Captain James Cook. After leaving New Zealand, Surville sought shelter in Peru. Sadly, he drowned during the journey from ship to land.
Remember the ever-changing regulations when you visit French Bay. Dogs must be on leashes. Alcohol is not allowed from 7 pm to 7 am. Smoking is banned in all Auckland parks. Use the provided bins to keep the area clean. Open fires are strictly prohibited. Flying drones requires a permit.
French Bay / Otitori Bay offers a blend of history. It mixes natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Whether you’re sailing with the Yacht Club or strolling along the shore, it’s a place of unique character. Take a moment to appreciate this coastal gem. Its story is etched in the landscape and the waves.