Story: Nation and government

Fortifications at Mt Victoria, Auckland

Fortifications at Mt Victoria, Auckland

Although New Zealand is far from most conflicts, its long coastline and dependence on sea-borne trade have periodically made New Zealanders feel vulnerable. In the 1880s a ‘Russian scare’ (when Russia was threatening British interests in North India) led to the building of elaborate coastal forts such as these on Auckland’s Mt Victoria. The site overlooks the entrance to Waitematā Harbour, and is now a reserve.

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GNS Science
Reference: 19249/9
Photograph by Lloyd Homer

Permission of GNS Science must be obtained before any use of this image.

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How to cite this page:

John Wilson, 'Nation and government - New Zealand in the world', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/2581/fortifications-at-mt-victoria-auckland (accessed 25 April 2024)

Story by John Wilson, updated 1 Sep 2016