Ataturk Memorial Park

The location of Ataturk Memorial Park resembles the Gallipoli peninsula. It sits on the headlands above Tarakena Bay on Wellington’s Miramar Peninsula.

The memorial is a result of an agreement between the Turkish, Australian, and New Zealand governments. It was New Zealand’s response to Turkey’s commemorative site at Anzac Cove. 

Unveiled in 1990, the memorial is a marble crescent, with inscriptions, soil from Anzac Cove, and a bust of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the first president of the Republic of Turkey. The paved forecourt, path, and gravel car parking areas were added in 1999.

There is parking available at Tarakena Bay car park and on Kekerenga Street in Strathmore.

From the car park, the memorial is accessible via steps or a sealed path.

With stunning views over Te Moana-o-Raukawa, the Cook Strait, the park marks the beginning of the popular Eastern Walkway.

Location details

Jurisdiction Wellington City Council
Permits required Yes, apply for a permit
Location descriptors Bays, beaches, cliffs, rock formations, sea, ocean, coastal walks, ocean views, parks, monuments, gardens, picnic areas, hiking trails, exercise areas.