Description of the attraction
The Mount Victoria Wildlife Refuge is one of the most famous landmarks in Davenport, a suburb of Auckland. Historically, Mount Victoria has always played a strategically important role for the inhabitants of this area. During the time of the Maori Indians, defensive settlements were built on Mount Victoria - characteristic depressions in the ground can be observed on the slopes today.
At the very beginning of the hiking trail, you can see the signalman's house. In the past, a signalman had to inform the public about the arrival or departure of ships from the harbor. This is why many of the houses in the Davenport area are built in such a way that the signal from the mountain can be seen from everywhere. The first signalmen lived in tents or huts. Later, a house was built here for the residence of the signalman and his family. The last signalman died in 1943. This building now houses the Michael King Writing Center, which contributes to the maintenance and development of New Zealand literature.
At the top of the mountain you can see the rarest defensive weapon of the Second World War - the North Head; there are very few such weapons left in the world. The weapon was installed to protect against a possible Russian invasion. However, due to the fact that the invasion did not take place, a single shot from this weapon was fired as a demonstration of its efficiency in honor of the arrival of the Queen of England. In addition, there are many tunnels and concrete bunkers here at the top of Mount Victoria in case of war. One of the bunkers is now used for concerts by the Davenport Folklore Club.
Bright figurines of "mushrooms" are scattered across the entire surface of the mountain. In fact, it is an irrigation system that maintains the attractive appearance of the slopes.
Mount Victoria Wildlife Sanctuary is managed by the Department of Conservation. You can get here on foot or by bike. You can also get there by car, but keep in mind that parking on the mountain is limited.
