Bastion Point — Attraction in Ōrākei

Bastion Point. Where Waitematā's blue waters entwine, And Rangitoto's peak stands sentinel, divine, There rises a headland, with stories untold, A place where the future met truths of old. Takaparawhau – its name echoes deep, A sacred trust that the Māori would keep. But history's tide, like the harbour's own flow, Brought changes, and sorrow, and seeds that would grow. The Pākehā came, with their ships and their laws, And claimed the fair land, without pause, without cause, From the Ngāti Whātua o Ōrākei, its rightful heirs, Whose mana and legacy, burdened with cares, Were slowly eroded, by treaty, by sale, As ancestral lands began silently to fail. The Crown's shifting promises, whispers in the breeze, Left a people dispossessed, brought them down to their knees. From Okahu Bay, their village once bright, To the city's expansion, and Pākehā might, They were moved, then dispersed, their community torn, A people cast out, culturally worn. Yet Takaparawhau, that prominent height, Remained in their vision, a guiding, clear light. A small parcel left, when the rest had been sold, A bastion of hope, in stories of old. For years it lay dormant, a forgotten green space, While Auckland expanded, at an ever-quickening pace. The government eyed it, for houses, for gain, A prime piece of real estate, free from all stain, Of a people's long sorrow, their historical plight, Just a blank canvas waiting, for development's light. But the embers of grievance, though dampened and low, Were ready to spark, and defiantly glow. Then a new generation, with courage and might, Awakened the past, and demanded their right. Joe Hawke arose, with his heart full of fire, And alongside his people, reached for something higher. In nineteen seventy-seven, a stand they would make, For justice, for land, for their ancestors' sake. They occupied Bastion, with resolute will, A protest encampment, atop the green hill. Tents on the headland, beneath sun and in rain, The Ōrākei Action Committee, enduring the pain. They built a marae, a symbol of pride, Where culture and language could never be denied. The nation looked on, some with anger and scorn, Others with empathy, as new truths were born. The media descended, the cameras did flash, As the struggle for justice became more than just cash. For five hundred and seven days, they held their ground fast, A beacon of protest, designed to outlast The Crown's cold indifference, its bureaucratic might, They stood for their heritage, and what they knew was right. But the tension escalated, the pressure grew strong, As the voice of the people sang a different song. And on May the twenty-fifth, 'seventy-eight, that grim morn, A dark chapter opened, a nation was torn. The police came in force, with the army arrayed, To clear the encampment, a scene gravely played. Dogs and batons, against those who stood still, Defending their mana, atop their own hill. One by one, they were lifted, their spirits unbowed, Two hundred and twenty-two amidst a hushed crowd. Arrested, imprisoned, for standing their ground, A travesty of justice, profoundly profound. The nation recoiled, at the images shown, Of a people oppressed, their true feelings known. The "Dawn Raid" of 'seventy-eight, a stain on the land, But a turning point, too, by an unwavering hand. For the forced evictions, though brutal and stark, Left an indelible, deep, historical mark. They sparked a re-thinking, a conscience awoke, And the truth of Te Tiriti began to be spoke. Years passed, and the arguments, slow but so sure, Brought a glimmer of hope, that could truly endure. The Waitangi Tribunal, with careful review, Affirmed Ngāti Whātua's claims, powerful and true. A return of the land, in nineteen eighty-eight, A landmark agreement, a new, hopeful fate. Takaparawhau returned, with an apology deep, A covenant honoured, a promise to keep. Now a place of remembrance, of beauty and peace, Where the waves...

Bastion Point is a scenic headland located in the eastern suburbs of Auckland, New Zealand. It is known for its beautiful panoramic views of Waitemata Harbour, the Auckland city skyline, and the Hauraki Gulf. However, it is also a site of significant historical and cultural importance to the Maori people.

For many years, Bastion Point was home to a Maori community who had lived in the area for generations.

Bastion Point is a protected heritage site that serves as a reminder of the struggles of the Maori people and their ongoing fight for recognition and respect. It is home to a memorial garden and a Maori cultural centre that provides education and support to the local community.

In addition to its cultural significance, Bastion Point is also a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The headland is home to a scenic walkway that offers stunning views of the harbour and the city, as well as a range of recreational activities such as picnicking, fishing, and swimming.

Overall, Bastion Point is a unique and important part of Auckland's cultural and historical landscape. It serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by the Maori people and the importance of preserving cultural heritage for future...

Bastion Point, located within Michael Joseph Savage Memorial Park, is a truly remarkable spot. The panoramic views from here are simply breathtaking, offering stunning vistas of the Auckland skyline and the Hauraki Gulf. The memorial itself is a poignant tribute, and the surrounding parkland provides a serene and welcoming atmosphere.

Beyond the memorial, Bastion Point offers a fantastic recreational space. The open grassy areas are perfect for various activities, making it an ideal location for families and individuals alike. It's a great place to fly kites, with the consistent breezes and ample space creating the perfect conditions.

The combination of historical significance, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities makes Bastion Point a must-visit destination. Whether you're looking to reflect, enjoy the views, or simply have some fun, this location offers something for everyone. The accessible pathways and well-maintained grounds make it easy to explore and enjoy the surroundings. I highly recommend a visit to this...