Page:Municipal Handbook of Auckland 1922.djvu/115

 In pre-European days Mount Hobson was a point of strategic importance in Maori warfare, as it commanded the approach from the Hauraki Gulf. Remains of fighting trenches can still be seen on the slopes of the Mount. Large deposits of shell, several feet deep, commonly known as Maori Middens, are also found on the hill.

Another Park, with a frontage to the harbour, was acquired in the Parnell district soon after the amalgamation of that Borough with the City, and was opened in 1915. The first section of the Park to be obtained was the Gillies Estate, which was purchased under the Public Works Act. Adjoining this property was "Kilbryde," which for many years had been the home of Sir John Logan Campbell, familiarly known as the "Father of Auckland." This was acquired from the Harbour Board, on January 21st, 1915, and the two properties combined were named Parnell Park, which was opened to the citizens on January 28th, 1915.

Very little required to be done to either of the grounds, and to-day the park forms an ideal and picturesque spot for spending a holiday, being in close proximity to Judge's Bay, on which stands the remains of the old cottage formerly tenanted by Judge Swainson. Delightful views of the harbour are obtainable from the grounds, and bathing may be indulged in on the beach. One of the residences in the Park has been utilised as a tea room.