20/06/2023
Achilles Point is a headland in St Heliers. It is named after the HMNZS Achilles, a New Zealand warship that played a role in the Battle of the River Plate in 1939. The point offers stunning views of the Hauraki Gulf, Rangitoto Island, and Browns Island.
The area around Achilles Point was first settled by Māori in the 14th century. They built a village on the point and used it as a fishing and gathering ground.
In the early 1800s, European settlers began to arrive in the area. The first European settlers to build on Achilles Point were the Scherer family. They built a large estate on the point and named it "Glover Park" after their friend, Douglas O. Stanley, who died in World War II.
In 1940, the Auckland City Council purchased Glover Park and opened it to the public. The council also built a memorial lookout on Achilles Point to commemorate the Battle of the River Plate. The lookout is shaped like the bow of a ship and is made of concrete.
Achilles Point is now a popular destination for both residents and visitors. It is a great place to go for a walk, have a picnic, or enjoy the views of the Hauraki Gulf.
