Before it was the bustling community hub we know today, this area was originally known as Glanville’s Bay.

Early Struggles: The Glanville family worked hard to clear bracken fern from the poor farming land. They sustained themselves by growing corn, wheat, and vegetables, alongside fishing for pilchards and hunting wild pigeons and ducks.

A Lost Grave: Henry Glanville, who emigrated for his health, died shortly after arriving, prompting his wife Mary to return to NSW. While his gravestone was discovered in the 1970s, his exact burial site—believed to be near the original homestead—has never been found.

A New Name: In 1878, the younger Henry Glanville sold the 2km beachfront property to the Hill family. They renamed it Stanmore Bay after their hometown in Great Stanmore, England. They employed a manager to run the farm rather than living there themselves.

Historic Remains: "Stanmore Cottage" still stands at the top of Brightside Road and currently operates as a childcare centre.

Stanmore Bay Today

Looking north to the Mahurangi Peninsula and the gulf islands of Motuora, Moturekareka, Motuketekete, and Kawau, the bay has transformed into a vibrant local destination.

Today, it is a popular spot for swimming and boating, and is home to the Stanmore Bay Boat Club, Stanmore Bay Pool and Leisure Centre, Hibiscus Coast Soccer Club and Hibiscus Raiders Rugby League Club.