Mt Atkinson is in the foothills of Titirangi, not far from the village centre. In the early 20th century, this was known as Bishop’s Hill. There is a short scenic walk, with expansive views of Titirangi Village and the Manukau and Waitemata harbours. There is also ‘Zig Zag Track’ walk, which winds its way through native bush from the village centre to Titirangi Beach. Exhibition Drive, a well-formed track very popular with walkers, joggers and cyclists, is located 1.5 km (1 mile) from the village centre.
Titirangi is bordered to the south by Manukau Harbour, to the west and north west by the rest of the Waitākere Ranges’ native bush clad hills consisting of the large Centennial Memorial Park and water catchment areas which supply much of Auckland’s water. The main road into the Waitakeres, the Scenic Drive, begins in Titirangi. To the east and north are a number of more urban suburbs.
A Bohemian Rep
For a long time the area had a reputation for bohemianism. A number of well known New Zealand musicians, artists, writers and potters currently live or have lived in the area, including singer/songwriter Tim Finn (who wrote the song “I Hope I Never” while residing there), actress Alma Evans-Freake, author Maurice Shadbolt, feminist artist Alexis Hunter, photographers Brian Brake and David Prentice, poet John Caselberg, potter Len Castle and glass artist Ann Robinson. The former house of painter Colin McCahon has been preserved as a museum and residence for artists and writers since 1998.
The sculpture on the round-about connecting Titirangi Road, Atkinson Road, Kohu Road, Scenic Drive and Huia Rd has been a symbol of Titirangi for many years, although it continues to be a controversial presence. Designed by student artist-jeweller Lisa Higgins in 1993, it was originally erected with the intention of only being in place for five years but has remained permanently. This was part of a Waitakere City Council programme of involving artists in public developments. Its original pink colour was toned down to a teal green in 2009.
