NSWPlanned settlement
Erina
A crossroads between Gosford and the beaches became the coast’s shopping hub.
1888Land subdivided and streets laid out
WHAT STARTED IT
Erina lies about halfway between Gosford and the ocean at Terrigal, on the road linking the two. The Runnimede Estate was surveyed and auctioned in farm and orchard lots from December 1888, and its streets became today’s Erina centre.
WHAT SUSTAINED IT
From 1906 the Shire of Erina governed much of the Central Coast outside Gosford town; on 1 January 1947 it was merged with Gosford and Woy Woy and divided into Gosford and Wyong shires. In 1987 Central Coast Fair, now Erina Fair, opened on land Grace Bros had bought around 1967; the site of the Skyline Drive-In (1958–1985) was later cleared for its car park.
TURNING POINTS
1888The Runnimede Estate at Erina is surveyed and offered for sale in farm and orchard lots.
1906The Shire of Erina is created; its first council meets at Gosford Courthouse in June.
1947Erina Shire is dissolved on 1 January and its area divided between Gosford and Wyong shires.
1958The Skyline Drive-In opens on the old Archibald orchard.
1987Central Coast Fair, now Erina Fair, opens on 24 August.
WHAT IT DOES NOW
The Central Coast’s largest commercial hub, with Erina Fair and businesses along the Central Coast Highway, Karalta Road and Barralong Road. The name may come from an Aboriginal word linked to a place of initiation, though its origin is uncertain.