North East Bay

Gazing across North East Bay, wouldn’t you agree there’s a unique charm to these shores? North East Bay isn’t just one location, but a collection of smaller suburbs nestled along Auckland’s North Shore. These suburbs, from Long Bay to Castor Bay, boast a rich history intertwined with both Maori and European settlers. The name “East Coast Bays” initially referred to the eastern coast of the North Island back in the 1870s. It wasn’t until the 1920s that it specifically denoted this area of the North Shore we admire today. Long Bay, within North East Bay, holds a significant place in Maori history. It was one of the most densely populated areas on the North Shore, serving as a vital transport hub with numerous paths connecting it to surrounding regions. The area is rich with archaeological findings. Many headlands served as defensive pā sites. Te Toroa at Torbay and Rahopara at Castor Bay are just two examples. Beyond their strategic importance, the bays provided seasonal resources for the Maori people. The warrior Maki, who unified many Tāmaki Māori tribes, left a lasting impact on the area. His sons inherited and settled different parts of his land. Maraeariki’s daughter, Kahu, is the namesake for both the North Shore, Te Whenua Roa ō Kahu, and Long Bay beach, Te Oneroa ō Kahu. European settlement began in the 1830s with timber merchants and kauri gum diggers. Murrays Bay and Campbells Bay even housed large gum digger camps. John Logan Campbell, a key figure in Auckland’s history, purchased much of North East Bay in 1864. Believing there was coal in the area, he later sold the land when his search proved fruitless. Much of it was then used for dairy farming. World War II saw the North East Bay coastline fortified with pillboxes and barbed wire from Torbay southwards. The Castor Bay Battery and Camp, cleverly disguised as a state housing project, stood as the largest fortification. After the war, residents successfully lobbied for independence. They formed the East Coast Bays Borough in 1954. This led to improved roads, essential services, and the growth of Browns Bay as the administrative center. The Auckland Harbour Bridge’s opening in 1959 dramatically transformed North East Bay. It fueled rapid population growth and transitioned the area from holiday communities to Auckland commuter suburbs. By 1975, fueled by this growth, the borough became a city. Despite ongoing development, North East Bay has worked to preserve its natural beauty. Long Bay Regional Park stands as a testament to these efforts, being one of Auckland’s first regional parks. As you explore the bays today, remember the layers of history beneath your feet. From ancient Maori settlements to wartime fortifications, North East Bay continues to evolve, balancing development with the preservation of its rich heritage.