Overlooking the Manukau Harbour lies Hillsborough Cemetery. A peaceful haven it’s also a window into Auckland’s past. Established in 1916 this cemetery wasn’t initially popular. For six years few burials occurred mostly paupers in the east.
Hillsborough Cemetery’s history is fascinating. It was bought by the Onehunga Borough Council. They needed more space. Waikaraka Cemetery was full. The cemetery eventually served the entire region. It even had a bus stop.
Hillsborough Cemetery is more than just graves. It’s a hillside site. Erosion is a problem. It’s part of the Waikarawhai Walkway. This 10km path connects Onehunga and Lynfield Cove. The cemetery has special sections. These are for St Mary’s of Ponsonby the Little Sisters of the Poor and the Sisters of the Good Shepherd.
Famous people are buried here. Bessie Blomfield a renowned artist is interred here. So is her father Charles Blomfield another famous artist. James Bradney a politician is also here. Bobby Leach the second person to go over Niagara Falls rests here too. Even Bill Cunningham a rugby player is buried here.
The last plots were sold in 1974. Burials still occur in reserved areas. Hillsborough Cemetery reflects Auckland’s growth. It shows its changing religious practices. It’s a treasure trove of stories waiting to be discovered. It’s a place of quiet reflection a reminder of lives lived. Explore Hillsborough Cemetery. Discover its intriguing history. You will find stories both extraordinary and poignant. This is Hillsborough Cemetery a place where the past lives on.