Discover Stokes Point
Stokes Point, also known as Northcote Point, is situated at the northern end of the Auckland Harbour Bridge, which links Downtown Auckland to the North Shore. This location is historically significant, includes Te Onewa Pā, and provides stunning views below the bridge and across the Waitematā Harbour.
A Blend of History and Scenic Views
The bridge was constructed in the late 1950s, spanning Stokes Point, which was part of the suburb of Northcote. Today, it is not an obvious destination, but the area around and under the bridge features well-maintained historic buildings, Te Onewa Pā, and artworks.
Visiting Stokes Point allows you to explore both Māori and European history while enjoying a close-up view of the Harbour Bridge. There are historic villas and buildings, as well as a monument dedicated to the three workers who lost their lives during the bridge's construction.
Northcote Point Victorian villas predating 1900 are a feature of the area around the bridge. In 1908, Nortcote became a borough, and a 22-metre flagstaff was built in celebration. Also built in 1908 and still standing are New Zealand's first scout den, the Post Office, and the former police station on Hinemoa Street.
In the early 2010s, the area beneath the bridge was redeveloped, and the Trestle Leg Series was introduced. Designed by Boffa Miskell and artist Catherine Griffiths, this series includes engraved poetry and prose on eight of the bridge legs.
Towards the end of the point is the pā site, with the bridge overhead. The site is marked by a striking pou carved by Reuben Kirkwood, and you can still see some features, such as the defensive ditch. From around the front of the point, the views across the harbour and under the bridge are superb.
How to Get There
From Downtown Auckland, take the northern motorway over the Harbour Bridge, then take the first off-ramp onto Stafford Road. Take a sharp left onto Nelson Avenue and then follow Alfred Street south, which becomes Princes Street, which takes you to car parking under the bridge, near the point. The drive takes 8 minutes and is 5.4 km. You can also catch a ferry from Downtown to the Northcote ferry terminal, then a short walk.
Nearby, you can walk to Halls Beach, the historic Northcote pub and Northcote village, with cafes and the Bridgeway, a historic movie theatre. A little further away is Le Roy’s Reserve and Kauri Glen Reserve.
