Discovering Myers Park (Horotiu) in Downtown Auckland
Myers Park, also known as Horotiu, is a hidden gem nestled in Downtown Auckland. Located parallel to the southern part of Queen Street, it offers a tranquil escape amidst the bustling city. The park is accessible from Queen Street, Mayoral Drive, St Kevins Arcade on K Road, and Greys Avenue. Visitors are drawn to its unique playground, which features large, colourful disc-shaped flowers and a kamokamo squash sculpture, making it a delightful spot for families.
Historical Background and Development
The park's origins date back to 1914-15 when it was transformed from a wasteland into a green haven. The Waihorotiu Stream, which once flowed through the gully and alongside Queen Street, was bricked over in the 1880s due to pollution. Influenced by the American City Beautiful and Reform Park movements, Auckland's mayors aimed to beautify the city and create family-friendly spaces. Arthur Myers, who served as mayor from 1905 to 1909, played a significant role in the park's development. He donated £9,000 to purchase the gully, and the 2.4-hectare area was designed as a Reform Park for families to connect with nature.
Architectural and Artistic Highlights
Myers Park is home to several notable structures and artworks. The Kindergarten Building, funded by Arthur Myers, is a prominent feature on the Queen Street side. This building is an excellent example of Arts and Crafts architecture and still functions as a play centre. Nearby, the kauri caretaker's cottage known as "Randalls," dating back to the 1850s, has been recently renovated and adds historical charm to the park.
The park also boasts intriguing artworks. In 1971, the Milne & Choyce Department Store offered Auckland City two Michelangelo statue replicas. While the city declined David, the Statue of Moses was installed in 1973 at the base of the stairs leading to St Kevin's Arcade. In 1999, the Five Goats statue was gifted by Auckland's sister city, Guangzhou, and is located on the north side of the playground. This statue commemorates the Chinese community that once resided on Greys Avenue.
In 2011 and 2023, three bronze sculptures by Rachel Walters, titled "Hau te Kapaka" (The Flapping Wind), were added at the Queen Street entrance. These pieces reflect on human impact on nature. Additionally, the shimmering aqua-blue light sculpture, Waimahara, can be found beneath the underpass at the park's northern end, symbolising the stream flowing beneath the gully.
How to Get There
To visit Myers Park, head to Downtown Auckland. The park is conveniently accessible from multiple points: Queen Street, Mayoral Drive, St Kevins Arcade on K Road, and Greys Avenue. Its central location makes it an easy addition to any city itinerary. While exploring the area, visitors might also consider visiting nearby attractions such as Aotea Square and the Auckland Art Gallery.
