Symonds Street Cemetery
Nestled in the bustling centre of Auckland, Symonds Street Cemetery stands as a testament to the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. This 5.8-hectare expanse of deciduous forest, spanning both Newton and Grafton Gullies, offers a unique glimpse into the early days of our largest metropolis.
A Journey Through Time
Established in 1842, when Auckland was the capital and home to a mere 2,000 souls, Symonds Street Cemetery holds the distinction of being the city’s first official burial ground. The cemetery’s name pays homage to William Cornwallis Symonds, a British Army officer who played a pivotal role in the early colonisation of Aotearoa.
Initially, the cemetery was divided into separate areas for different religious denominations:
- Anglican and Wesleyan sections to the east of Symonds Street
- Jewish, Presbyterian, and Roman Catholic areas to the west
Over time, the cemetery expanded to accommodate the growing population. By 1852, the shared section became exclusively Presbyterian, and a new Wesleyan and general section was added.
Notable Features and Landmarks
Grafton Bridge: This iconic structure spans the cemetery, adding an architectural element to the historic landscape.
Waiparuru Stream: Flowing through the lower part of Grafton Gully, this waterway enhances the natural beauty of the site.
Historic Place Category I Listing: The cemetery’s cultural and historical significance is recognised by its inclusion in the New Zealand Historic Places Trust.
A Resting Place for Early Colonists
Symonds Street Cemetery serves as the final resting place for many of Auckland’s early settlers and notable figures. Among those interred here are:
- William Hobson, the first Governor of New Zealand and co-author of the Treaty of Waitangi
- Philip Philips, Auckland City’s first mayor (1871-1874)
- Annie Jane Schnackenberg, a missionary and suffrage activist
- Charles de Thierry, an adventurer who attempted to establish his own sovereign state before British annexation
Challenges and Conservation Efforts
Like many historic sites, Symonds Street Cemetery has faced its share of challenges over the years. The development of the Auckland Southern Motorway in the mid-1960s necessitated the relocation of over 4,100 bodies, reducing the cemetery’s land area by about a quarter.
Vandalism and neglect have also been ongoing issues. In 1996, the Auckland City Council commissioned the Symonds Street Cemetery Conservation Plan, though implementation of its recommendations has been limited. The Waitematā Local Board acknowledges the ongoing struggle to maintain the site, likening it to “treading water”.
Despite these challenges, efforts to preserve and restore the cemetery continue. The Auckland Council employs a specialist stonemason for gravestone restoration, and security patrols are conducted, albeit with limited effectiveness.
A Living Museum
Today, Symonds Street Cemetery serves as both a historic site and a public park. Its 5.8 hectares of deciduous forest provide a peaceful retreat from the surrounding urban landscape, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature and history simultaneously.
The cemetery’s layout reflects the social and religious divisions of early Auckland society, with each denomination allocated its own area. This arrangement provides valuable insights into the city’s early demographic makeup and the importance of religious identity in colonial New Zealand.
Visiting Symonds Street Cemetery
For those interested in exploring this historic site, the cemetery is easily accessible from central Auckland. Whether you’re a history buff, a genealogist tracing family roots, or simply seeking a quiet spot for reflection, Symonds Street Cemetery offers a unique experience.
When visiting, remember to:
- Respect the site’s historical and cultural significance
- Stay on designated paths to protect the graves and vegetation
- Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the cemetery’s history and notable occupants
Symonds Street Cemetery stands as a poignant reminder of Auckland’s past, offering a tangible link to the early days of European settlement. As we continue to grow and evolve as a nation, places like this serve as important anchors, connecting us to our history and helping us understand the foundations upon which our modern society is built.