Atop the hill overlooking Saint Mary’s Bay Park stand the remnants of a rich history. This isn’t just any park. This is Saint Mary’s Bay Park a place woven into the fabric of Auckland itself.
Imagine Bishop Pompallier arriving in 1853. He purchased 47 acres of land establishing what would become Saint Mary’s Bay. He named it Mount Saint Mary a testament to his faith and vision. The land wasn’t empty. It was already home to a Maori pa called Ok or Te Koraenga. This headland served as a vital fishing base particularly during the summer shark fishing season. The area even had a name Ko Takere Haere meaning the split canoe hull recalling a tragic accident involving a waka.
The story of Saint Mary’s Bay Park is a blend of Maori history and European development. Bishop Pompallier’s purchase marked the beginning of a wave of Catholic institutions. St Anne’s School for Maori girls opened in 1854. This marked a pivotal point in the area’s history providing education for Maori girls while also weaving together the cultural fabrics of the area. St Mary’s College followed later. The Bishop’s Palace an imposing brick gothic structure built in 1894 stands as a lasting monument to this era. It was even one of the first houses in Auckland to boast electric lighting a true marvel of its time.
But Saint Mary’s Bay’s story isn’t solely about grand buildings. It’s also about everyday life. The small commercial boatyards thriving along the foreshore tell a story of hard work and community. The construction of the motorway in the 1950s altered the landscape forever. Many of the boatyards disappeared along with the direct access to the sea. Yet even amidst this transformation residents fought to preserve the essence of Saint Mary’s Bay. The creation of Westhaven Marina a testament to their perseverance stands as proof of this resilience.
The Jacobs Ladder Bridge now provides a pedestrian connection to Westhaven Marina. It’s a symbol of Auckland’s continuous evolution. It connects the past with the present offering a glimpse into the history of this remarkable area. A stroll through Saint Mary’s Bay Park today is a walk through time. Every tree every path echoes with stories of those who have come before. This is Saint Mary’s Bay Park a place where history and nature meet offering a unique perspective on Auckland’s rich tapestry. It is a reminder of Auckland’s enduring spirit of resilience innovation and community.