Mount Victoria

Gazing up at Takarunga / Mount Victoria, have you ever wondered about the stories hidden within its slopes? This prominent landmark, the highest volcano on Auckland’s North Shore, stands as a silent witness to centuries of history. Takarunga, meaning “The Hill Standing Above,” offers breathtaking panoramic views of Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour and the Hauraki Gulf. But its significance goes far beyond its scenic beauty. Long before European settlers arrived, Takarunga was a vital pā, a fortified Māori village. Traces of its earthworks and storage pits are still visible today, whispering tales of the people who once called this place home. In the 18th century, the paramount chief Kiwi Tāmaki occupied Takarunga seasonally for bird catching and preservation. Imagine him surveying his domain from this very spot. The arrival of Europeans brought a new name, Mount Victoria, in honor of Queen Victoria. A signal station was built on the summit in 1841 to guide ships into the bustling Port of Auckland. Later, a gun fort was constructed in 1885, a stark reminder of fears of a Russian invasion. Today, the remnants of this military history can still be seen. Explore the slopes and you might stumble upon one of the concrete bunkers from the 1870s. One of these bunkers now houses the Devonport Folk Music Club, a testament to the mountain’s evolving role in the community. Takarunga / Mount Victoria also played a significant role in the 2014 Treaty of Waitangi settlement. Ownership of the mountain, along with thirteen other volcanic cones in Auckland, was vested in the Ngā Mana Whenua o Tāmaki Makaurau collective. This recognizes the deep spiritual and cultural connection of Māori to these ancestral landmarks. Today, the mountain is governed by the Tūpuna Maunga Authority, ensuring its preservation for future generations. As you stand here, on the slopes of Takarunga / Mount Victoria, take a moment to appreciate the layers of history that have shaped this remarkable place. From a Māori pā to a military outpost to a beloved community space, this mountain holds a special place in the heart of Auckland.