Remembering Bastion Point 30 years on

From City Scene, published on 18 May, 2008

Protest gathering: Bastion Point re-occupation (detail) - photograph by John Miller, 1982. One of many works from the exhibition Bastion Point: 30 Years On at Central City Library.

The Central City Library's exhibition, Bastion Point: 30 Years On commemorates the 30th anniversary of the eviction of Ngati Whatua o Orakei from Bastion Point, where Orakei Marae now stands.

The exhibition has been developed in partnership with Ngati Whatua o Orakei. It documents Bastion Point's occupation by Ngati Whatua and their supporters and subsequent eviction and re-occupation, using news coverage, photographs and protest posters of the time.

Some of the people whose work is featured include cinematographer Mairi Gunn, and photographers Gil Hanly and Robin Morrison.

Chairperson of the Community Services Committee, Councillor Paul Goldsmith, says the events at Bastion Point are an important part of Auckland's history.

"I am sure that the exhibition will remind us of the passions held by those involved, and help our understanding of the broader issue of Maori landholding in the city."

The exhibition runs from 19 to 30 May on level 2 of the Central City Library, 44-46 Lorne Street.

Other activities include a ceremony of remembrance and reconciliation which will be observed at Orakei Marae on 25 May, with Sir Paul Reeves officiating.