Whirlwinds of history and legend swirl around us here at Mount Hobson. Known also by its Māori name, Ōhinerau, this maunga is one of Auckland’s many volcanic peaks. But Ōhinerau is more than just a hill. It is a place of deep cultural significance.
Ōhinerau means “the place of Hinerau”. Hinerau was the goddess of whirlwinds. This name reflects the often breezy conditions. The wind whips around the summit.
In pre-European times, Mount Hobson was a large Māori pā. A pā is a fortified village settlement. It is estimated that around 1000 people lived here. They lived at the height of its occupation. The pā had a single strong point at the summit. It was defended by large terraces. These terraces held houses, storehouses and storage pits.
Even today, remnants of the pā terraces and pits are visible. They are around the crest of the maunga. As you walk the tracks, look closely at the dirt banks. You might spot historic midden deposits. Middens contain shells of cockles, pipi and scallops. Also cat’s-eye, obsidian and bone can be seen. These are the rubbish left behind by those that lived on the Maunga. Middens reveal what Māori ate and how they lived.
Please remember these are important archaeological features. Do not disturb the midden. Tread carefully. Stick to the formal tracks. Some of these remaining pits are quite deep.
Mount Hobson is also linked to New Zealand’s colonial history. It was named after Captain William Hobson. He was the first Governor of New Zealand. He was also co-author of the Treaty of Waitangi. This was the first mountain he climbed in Auckland.
The mountain’s flat-top appearance isn’t natural. It is the roof of a water reservoir. This was installed in 1935. Between 1913 and 1916 there was much debate. The debate was about whether Mt Hobson should be considered as a new site for the new University College buildings. Mt Hobson was away from the city centre. It was handy to recreational playing fields. Also railway stations at Remuera and Newmarket.
There was also quarrying on Mount Hobson in 1877. This resulted in much public furore. The maunga was gazetted as a public domain in 1880 by Sir George Grey.
Ōhinerau / Mt Hobson is one of 14 Tūpuna Maunga. Tūpuna Maunga means ancestral mountains. They are co-governed by the Tūpuna Maunga Authority.
A walk to the summit offers stunning views. You can see Maungarei / Mt Wellington and Maungawhau / Mt Eden. From the top you can see across Tāmaki Makaurau. You can even see out to Rangitoto Island.
As you explore Ōhinerau / Mount Hobson, remember its layered history. From ancient Māori settlements to colonial landmarks. This maunga has witnessed centuries of change. Take a moment to appreciate the stories etched into this landscape. Respect its cultural significance. Protect its archaeological features. Let the goddess of whirlwinds carry you away. Let her carry you away on a journey through time.