Discovering Ōkahu Bay: A Historical Gem in Auckland
Ōkahu Bay is the first of the four main eastern bay beaches along Tāmaki Drive in Auckland. This bay is not only a scenic spot but also holds significant historical importance, particularly in relation to the tangata whenua, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, and their connection to the central city area.
The Origins of Ōkahu Bay
The name Ōkahu means "the dwelling place of Kahumatamomoe," who was the captain of the Arawa waka that journeyed to Aotearoa, New Zealand. Kahumatamomoe is believed to have travelled extensively around the North Island in the 1400s, naming various locations such as Kaipara and Waitematā Harbour. Ōkahu Bay served as a stopping point during these voyages, hence its name.
Historical Significance and Challenges
In the mid-1700s, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei established their home village at Ōkahu Bay as the iwi became prominent in the eastern bays and Tāmaki Isthmus. Although they retained the bay and nearby Ōrākei, Takaparawha Point, and Bastion Point after selling most of their land for Auckland's development, the government eventually seized these areas through questionable means. The final blow came in the early 1950s when the Auckland City Council demolished the remaining village at the bay, deeming it an "eyesore" and a "potential disease centre" just before Queen Elizabeth II's Royal Tour in 1952-53.
The Bastion Point Protest and Land Return
In the 1970s, the government's plan to sell land around Ōkahu and Ōrākei for upscale housing sparked a significant protest. Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei occupied nearby Bastion Point for over 500 days, leading to mass arrests and eventually a settlement of their longstanding Treaty of Waitangi claims. By 1988, much of Ōrākei, Ōkahu, Takaparawha Point, and Bastion Point was returned to the iwi.
Modern-Day Ōkahu Bay
Today, Ōkahu Bay is a popular spot for Aucklanders, featuring the Ōrākei Domain on the south side of Tāmaki Drive. The bay has large grassy areas with pōhutukawa trees providing shade, along with picnic facilities. At the southwest end, you will find the Ōrākei Marina, and you can rent kayaks to explore the harbour and surrounding bays. On the bay's east side, Kelly Tarlton's is a major tourist attraction.
Getting to Ōkahu Bay
To reach Ōkahu Bay, head east along Tāmaki Drive from Auckland's city centre. The bay is the first of the main eastern beaches you will encounter. Public transport options include buses that run along Tāmaki Drive, or you can enjoy a scenic walk or cycle from the city.
Further along, beyond Bastion Point, you can also explore Mission Bay, Kohimarama and St Heliers.
