What if Auckland’s “City of Sails” had a secret cove known for something other than sailing? I am talking about Herrings Bay. This isn’t your typical tourist stop. Herrings Bay is a small indentation on the coastline. It likely has a story that stretches back to the early Māori settlers around 1350.
These first inhabitants called the area Tāmaki Makaurau. It means “Tāmaki desired by many”. The name reflects the area’s rich resources and strategic location. The narrow isthmus between the harbors offered access to both coasts. Fertile soils aided horticulture, and the sea teemed with seafood.
Imagine the scene. Māori people constructing terraced pā, fortified villages, on the volcanic peaks surrounding the bay. These villages weren’t always in defense mode. Most people lived in undefended kāinga. They focused on horticulture, fishing, and shellfish gathering.
The tribes of Ngāi Tai, Te Kawerau ā Maki, and Ngāti Te Ata all had connections to this land. The dominant power on the Tāmaki isthmus was Waiohua. It was a federation of tribes. They prospered for centuries. They built extensive kūmara gardens. By 1750, tens of thousands called this isthmus home. It was the most wealthy and populous area in pre-European New Zealand.
Then came the upheaval. From the early 18th century, the Ngāti Pāoa edged their way into the Hauraki Gulf. Between 1740 and 1750, Ngāti Whātua-o-Kaipara invaded. They killed Kiwi Tāmaki, paramount chief of Waiohua. Ngāti Whātua secured their dominance. They intermarried with Waiohua descendants.
Later, the arrival of Europeans changed everything. Ngāti Whātua and Tainui tribes were the main groups in the area. They sought British protection. They also wanted a reciprocal relationship with the Crown and the Church.
Apihai Te Kawau, a Ngāti Whātua leader, gifted 3500 acres to Governor Hobson for the new capital. This marked the beginning of Auckland. It was a pivotal moment in New Zealand’s history.
Auckland was officially declared the capital in 1841. The city grew rapidly. It became a major port and commercial center. Though the capital later moved to Wellington, Auckland remained a vital hub.
The name Herrings Bay might seem simple. However, its shores have witnessed centuries of change. From Māori settlements to European colonization, this bay holds layers of history. It silently observes Auckland’s transformation. It is still a place of natural beauty.