When The Royal New Zealand Fencibles arrived at Howick in September 1847, they were very isolated. The Howick Fencibles established several routes to Auckland. One went to Bucklands Beach, where they were taken by a ferry across to Pt England by a farmer, Mr Stephens. In 1852 the cutters "Alert" and "Thetis" provided a regular service between Auckland and Panmure stopping at Mr Masons at Bucklands Beach and Point England, two or three times per week. A return ticket was 4/-(shillings). Alfred Buckland, who had 21 children, bought the farm in 1861 for 2,500 pounds plus 150 pounds per annum to go to Mason and his wife Sarah, who lived another 35 years. Buckland was a successful businessman. The beach was named after him. At one stage he owned land in the area, and also owned land situated at what is now the commercial district of Newmarket. In the late 19th century and around the turn of the 20th century, Buckland farmed ostriches at Bucklands Beach. The feathers were sold for hat decoration.