Onehunga has a rich history of Maori and European settlement, development and culture. In this section we outline historical facts, interesting stories, and other information including some locals walks highlighting some of the key Onehunga sites.
Famous Firsts in Onehunga
Learn all about the history of Onehunga through a chronological list of facts
Auckland's first zoo was in Onehunga
Auckland's first private zoo was based in Symonds Street, Onehunga. Called the Royal Oak Zoo, it was full of exotic animals before it eventually closed in 1922.
A summary of Onehunga's European settlement
Onehunga has a rich history of Maori and European settlement and trade. From the mid-1800s it became one of the country's first and busiest ports and an area influential in the identity of early Pakeha New Zealand.
Onehunga Arts Festival 2019
In 2019 Onehunga hosted a nine-day festival celebrating our creative community.
Manukau Heritage Walk
This 2-hour walk takes explores the history and development of suburban Onehunga.
Maungakiekie Heritage walk
This 60-minute walk takes in key heritage and art sites around Onehunga’s town centre. This is one of two walks developed for the Onehunga Art & Heritage Walk guide to show the enduring heritage that continues to shape and characterise Onehunga today.
