18 September marked the 180th anniversary of the formal founding of the settlement of Auckland, when the gifting/exchange of 3,000 acres of land was signed between Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei’s paramount chief, Apihai Te Kawau, & Governor Hobson, on Te Rerenga-Ora-iti/Point Britomart between where Emily Place currently sits, out to Te Toka o Apihai Te Kawau on Quay Street.

This tuku whenua (gift of land) was made under an agreement for this 3,000 acres to be used and shared with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, and also, on the vision of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei tūpuna, for Māori and Pākehā to live together side by side, for the mutual benefit of both parties.

Images: Auckland Council