Hauraki Gulf

Auckland's lifestyle and character are influenced by its proximity to the Hauraki Gulf with the islands of Rangitoto, Waiheke, Tiritiri Matangi and Kawau all relatively close to the City. Little Barrier and Great Barrier Islands are in the outer Gulf. Ferries allow visitors to reach these islands as well as Devonport across the Waitemata Harbour from Auckland City. More than 22 species of whales and dolphins have been recorded in the gulf. Common and bottlenose dolphins, Bryde’s whales and pilot whales are the most often sighted, with sei and minke whales also seen. Humpback whales pass through on their way to the Antarctic in summer and on their return in winter to their tropical breeding grounds in the South Pacific.

This 1987 Documentary describes the park in full, see it at NZonScreen.

The Hauraki Gulf is considered the jewel in Auckland city’s crown. An outstandingly beautiful gulf with a myriad of islands it provides a setting of splendour surrounding the city. The harbour, closest to the city and part of the gulf, is named Waitemata, which translates from Maori as sparkling water. This name is fitting. Auckland is surrounded by water with few places are more than two hours by car from a sea shore. It is this that shapes the life style of the city and the reason this major city developed at this location. The sheltered waters made it easy for early transport and later for ships of trade.

Auckland’s history is closely linked to the sea. Historically the ancestors of all New Zealanders both Polynesian and European had to cross vast quantities of it to reach these shores, taking daring and lengthy journeys. They were marine based peoples. The sheltered gulf provided for early inhabitants, the Maori tribes who resided here, as a food source and a safe waterway. Both the Waitemata on the east coast and Manukau Harbour, on the west coast also provided a natural defence for resident Maori tribes. Prime waterside points on the harbour were the sites for villages or maraes. Maori used the high points to give good visibility of any visitors or warriors preparing to arrive by sea. At Bastion Point, the prime site over-looking the Waitemata, the Ngati Whatua tribe still has their marae.

Today, Auckland is often called the City of Sails which is due to the large numbers of its inhabitants who enjoy the sea sailing for pleasure or for sport. Several marinas are crowded with craft from huge superyachts to tiny dinghies. During the weekend races for yachts fill the Waitemata Harbour with sails. Visitors can enjoy a sail cruise aboard a number of vessels from America’s cup sleek racing yachts to sailing tri-marans to old fashioned timber yachts of a bygone era.

**Wawaroa by Anna Evans