Exploring Western Springs Reserve: A Natural Oasis in Auckland
Western Springs Reserve, also known as Western Springs Lakeside Te Wai Ōrea, is located on the western side of downtown Auckland. This park is a relatively recent addition to central Auckland's green spaces. Historically, it served as one of the two major freshwater sources and wetlands on the Auckland Isthmus. The Māori name, Te Wai Ōrea, meaning "the water of eels," highlights its significance as a pre-European food source.
A Unique Ecosystem and Historical Significance
The water at Western Springs flows through cracks in basalt lava from Te Tātua a Riukiuta / Big King, one of the 14 Tūpuna Maunga, situated in the suburb of Three Kings to the southeast. This natural filtration process ensured the water's freshness and supported a unique lava rock forest ecosystem. This rare ecosystem, consisting of plants growing in minimal soil among rock and leaf humus, can still be observed at Gribblehurst Park in Sandringham, Auckland.
In the 1870s, Auckland required a new freshwater supply, leading to the construction of a dam and the creation of an artificial lake. This lake served as the city's drinking water source for 30 years. The name Western Springs was adopted to distinguish it from the springs at Auckland Domain Pukekawa, the previous major water source. In 1928, Western Springs was replaced by new reservoirs in the Waitākere Ranges.
Development and Transformation
Following its replacement as a water source, the lake was somewhat neglected. However, the opening of Auckland Zoo on the north side in 1922 and Western Springs Stadium to the east in 1929 brought renewed interest. Although there was a proposal for an amusement park in the 1950s, it was never realised due to a lack of funds. In 1961, Auckland City began managing the area as a reserve. The adjacent Museum of Transport and Technology opened in 1964, and Western Springs was officially designated a public park in 1977.
