Oriental Beach

Why did they change the name? I mean, Oriental Bay sounds so much more exotic than Duppa Bay. Right here, at what was once known as Duppa Bay, we can soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Oriental Bay. It’s hard to imagine that this bustling beach, so close to Wellington’s city center, was once a desolate, rocky area. Oriental Bay earned its current name in 1843, a tribute to one of the first ships to bring settlers to Wellington. Before that, it was named after George Duppa, the sole resident at the time. He clearly wasn’t attached to the name though. In the 1800s, Oriental Bay served as a quarantine station and a whaling spot. Imagine the pungent smell of boiling whale blubber wafting through the air. The transformation of Oriental Bay is truly remarkable. In 2004, 22,000 tonnes of sand, shipped all the way from Golden Bay, replenished the beach that had eroded over time. This golden sand now welcomes locals and tourists alike. They come to bask in the sun, swim in the refreshing waters of Wellington Harbour, and admire the backdrop of grand houses clinging to the slopes of Mount Victoria. The iconic Carter Fountain shoots water 16 meters into the air, a dramatic display against the backdrop of the bay. Remember, the sand here at Oriental Bay is quite coarse. This is intentional, to minimize wind erosion. From a “dreary-looking spot” to a beloved destination, Oriental Bay tells a captivating story of transformation. It’s a place where history and natural beauty converge. It offers a vibrant escape just a stone’s throw from the city’s heart.