Ōrākei Basin

Ōrākei Basin (also known as Hobson Bay) is a tidal inlet located in Auckland, New Zealand. It is situated on the Waitematā Harbour, to the east of the Auckland CBD and to the west of Mission Bay.

The basin is formed by the crater of a now-extinct volcano, which erupted approximately 85,000 years ago. The crater breached to the sea, creating the current bay. The surrounding landscape is characterised by residential areas, parkland, and beaches.

Historically, the basin was of significant importance to the Māori people, who utilized its resources for fishing and gathering. The name "Ōrākei" refers to a place of adornment or a beautiful place. European settlement in the 19th century led to changes in the landscape, including land reclamation and the development of infrastructure.

Today, Ōrākei Basin is a popular recreational area, used for activities such as sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, and swimming. The area around the basin contains amenities like boat ramps, walking tracks, and playgrounds. It is also a prominent feature in the Auckland landscape, providing scenic views of the harbour.