Last updated July 2026
Maupuia is a hillside residential suburb on the Miramar Peninsula in eastern Wellington, positioned on the ridge above Evans Bay and north-west of central Miramar. Developed from 1970 as a prestige residential subdivision, it features many properties with views across Evans Bay, Wellington Harbour and the airport. The area was originally the site of a Māori pā and formed part of the Miramar Borough from 1904 until its incorporation into Wellington City in 1921. Maupuia remains a quiet, primarily residential neighbourhood served by bus links to Miramar and the central city.
Practical Information
| Location | Miramar Peninsula ridge, north-west of Miramar, overlooking Evans Bay |
| Population | 1,485 (2018 census); 1,470 (2023 census); estimated 1,500 (June 2025) |
| Established | 1970s (major residential development from 1970) |
| Area | 1.96 km² |
| Ward | Motukairangi/Eastern Ward |
| Original Māori occupation | Site of a Māori pā on Rongotai Ridge |
About Maupuia
Maupuia occupies the northern part of the Miramar Peninsula on the narrow Rongotai Ridge. Its elevated position provides many homes with expansive views over Evans Bay and Wellington Harbour. The suburb was planned as a prestige development with a mix of single houses, townhouses and flats, and earthworks moved substantial volumes of material to create suitable building platforms.
The suburb lies within the Eastern Ward of Wellington City and is bordered by Miramar to the south-east. Residents typically access shopping and services in Miramar or Kilbirnie, while bus routes connect the area to the central city via the Mount Victoria Tunnel.
History and Māori Heritage
The area was originally the site of a Māori pā. Historical accounts note that the Rongotai Ridge was occupied by the Ngāti Hinepare clan, a hapū of Ngāti Kahungunu. The narrow land bridge made the location strategically important for movement between the peninsula and the mainland.
Maupuia formed part of the Miramar Borough, established in 1904, until the borough amalgamated with Wellington City on 31 January 1921. In 1949 the Wellington City Council exchanged land to secure the Townsend Estate on the peninsula for future residential use. Major development began in 1970 with the creation of sections that were balloted to buyers.
Character Today
Maupuia retains a quiet, hillside residential character with limited local commercial facilities. The suburb includes Maupuia Park and lies near the former Wellington Prison site and Shelly Bay on the western side of the peninsula. Ongoing interest in peninsula redevelopment, including at Shelly Bay, forms part of the broader context for the area.
Where to Learn More
Wikipedia — Maupuia: Detailed suburb profile including demographics, history and development timeline.
Wellington City Council — Miramar history: Overview of Miramar Peninsula history including borough formation and amalgamation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Maupuia?
On the Miramar Peninsula ridge above Evans Bay, north-west of central Miramar in eastern Wellington.
When was Maupuia developed?
Major residential development began in 1970 as a prestige subdivision on land previously part of the Townsend Estate.
What Māori history is associated with Maupuia?
The area was the site of a Māori pā on Rongotai Ridge, occupied by Ngāti Hinepare, a hapū of Ngāti Kahungunu.
What was the population of Maupuia in recent censuses?
1,485 at the 2018 census and 1,470 at the 2023 census, with an estimated 1,500 residents as of June 2025.
Is Maupuia part of the former Miramar Borough?
Yes, the area was within the Miramar Borough from 1904 until amalgamation with Wellington City in 1921.
What are the views like from Maupuia?
Many properties enjoy views across Evans Bay, Wellington Harbour and the airport due to the hillside location.
How do residents access the central city?
By bus via Miramar and the Mount Victoria Tunnel, or by car on the same route.
What facilities are nearby?
Maupuia Park lies within the suburb, while shopping and services are available in nearby Miramar and Kilbirnie.
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