Does the name Tumbledown Point suggest an area of little importance? Think again. This spot holds layers of history.
Welcome to Tumbledown Point. It is an area transformed from ancient roots to modern life. Before we delve into its story, let’s take a moment to appreciate this coastal vista.
Before European settlement, this land was covered in kauri forest. The tidal flats teemed with birds and shellfish. These provided food for local iwi Ngati Whatua and Te Kawerau a Maki. They knew this point and surrounds as Onekiritea. This referred to the clay soil found here. They used it for pigment and as a natural soap. Imagine them gathering clay right where we stand.
In 1853, the Crown bought 600 acres. It purchased the land on the peninsula from Ngati Whatua. The area was renamed Port Hobsonville. It was named after Captain William Hobson. He was the first Governor of New Zealand. The land was mainly used for farming. However, in 1863, Rice Owen Clark became frustrated. His farmland was claggy and non-draining. So he developed pottery works nearby. It was at Limeburners Bay. He commercially produced clay drainage pipes. Eventually, seven companies operated until the clay ran out. That was in the 1930s. Rice Owen Clark’s descendants went on to form Crown Lynn Pottery in New Lynn.
In 1924, Hobsonville was chosen as a site for aviation. This included both land and sea. The air force established their home on the Point in 1929. The base became dotted with barracks. It also gained hangars and houses. Roads and landing strips intersected the area. Hobsonville was New Zealand’s premier flying-boat base. It remained so until 1967. That was when the amphibious craft were phased out.
Consider the transformations Tumbledown Point has undergone. First, it was a source of sustenance. Then it became farmland. Later, it became an aviation hub. Now Tumbledown Point is part of a modern community. It is a place where history meets contemporary living.
Today, stylish three-bed terraces stand near the water’s edge. These are within walking distance of the ferry port and Catalina Bay. These newly developed homes enjoy a prime location. They have the best of amenities. They offer a seaside lifestyle. Residents enjoy expansive views of the Waitemata Harbour.
So, as we stand here at Tumbledown Point, remember its layered past. It is a place that has continuously evolved. It is a testament to the rich history of Auckland and New Zealand. From Maori use of clay to aviation history and modern housing, it is a place with a great story.