“A jewel in the crown” is how some people describe Saint Marys Bay Beach. But its story begins long before that saying.
Saint Marys Bay is one of Auckland’s oldest suburbs. Maori first settled here recognizing the value of the shoreline. They harvested what the sea offered.
Later European settlers also saw the appeal of Saint Marys Bay. Transport and sea resources were key. In the 1840s settlers farmed the land around here.
A significant change occurred in the 1850s. Catholic Bishop Pompallier bought 19 hectares of land. This area stretched from Three Lamps to the coastline. He named it Mount St Mary.
Over the years the Bishop established a church here. He also started schools and an orphanage. St Marys College is one of his lasting legacies. It is a very popular girls’ school today.
From the 1860s the church began selling off land. This led to residential development. Farms were sold and subdivided.
The early 1900s brought some iconic buildings to Saint Marys Bay. The Ponsonby Fire Station now houses Mary’s cafe. The Leys Institute still functions as a library. The Ponsonby Post Office recently became Augustus bistro.
Many historic buildings remain in Saint Marys Bay including character villas. However the construction of a motorway in the 1950s cut off the suburb from the shoreline. This motorway connected to the Auckland Harbour Bridge.
Shipyards and slipways closed. There was even a threat to fill in Westhaven. Residents joined forces to save it. They donated their time and skills to create Westhaven Marina.
In 2012 Jacob’s Ladder was revamped. It connected Saint Marys Bay to the shoreline. A footbridge over the motorway improved access to Westhaven.
Today Saint Marys Bay is a quiet north-facing area. It has easy access to Ponsonby and Jervois Roads. These roads offer hospitality and shopping. Downtown Auckland is only 3km away.
Its location is one of Saint Marys Bay’s great assets. There is very little through traffic here.
Bernadette Morrison of Bayleys notes the area’s value. People appreciate Saint Marys Bay for its central location. They also love the harbour views and historic character.
Properties in Saint Marys Bay are tightly held. It is one of Auckland’s oldest and most exclusive areas. Few properties are sold here compared to neighboring suburbs.
Stunning colonial architecture remains throughout the community. Local landmarks and private residences add to the charm. The suburb is reminiscent of San Francisco’s hills. It offers views of the Harbour Bridge Westhaven and the city.
Before Bishop Pompallier the Maori had names for this area. The eastern end near Harbour Street was Te Papaku a Whai. It means “Whai’s Shoal”. The western end near St Marys Road was Ko Takere Haea. This means “the split canoe hull”.
The foreshore of Saint Marys Bay played a key role for European immigrants. Prosperous families settled here in the 1850s. They built villas with gardens overlooking the water.
Access was mainly by water. Private jetties connected owners to Queen Street. The Catholic Church significantly influenced the suburb’s growth. Immigrant Irish Catholics bought land to be near the church. Street names like “Dublin” and “Green” reflect this.
Significant changes have occurred to the foreshore over the years. A breakwater was constructed after cyclone damage. By 1940 dredging and land reclamation had occurred. A seawall was built around Westhaven Drive.
Locals protested the Harbour Bridge construction in 1956. They wanted to preserve Saint Marys Bay and Shelly Beach. The bridge opened in 1959 and expanded later. Lack of sea access hurt local boat builders.
Local residents stepped in again. They donated their skills to create Westhaven Marina. Today it is one of Auckland’s greatest assets. The pioneering architect Edward Mahoney lived in Saint Marys Bay. He designed many buildings including St Mary’s Convent.
The Gothic-style Pompallier Diocesan Centre was completed in 1894. It was the bishop’s residence. It was one of Auckland’s first homes with electricity.
Mary’s cafe occupies the original fire station on St Marys Road. The Leys Institute provides a place for youth. The former Post Office was designed by John Campbell.
Boat building was a major occupation for early settlers. The eastern end was a thriving marine industry. The Ponsonby Cruising Club was a social hub. The beach at the western end was a popular swimming spot.
The Sisters of Mercy established schools and provided care. Jacob’s Ladder now connects Westhaven Marina to Saint Marys Bay. It’s a great place for biking walking and picnicking. Mary’s Cafe serves cafe classics. Saint Marys Bay remains a pleasant oasis for locals.