Joanna James
Auckland is home to many stunning historical buildings whose beautiful architecture and original furnishings, all of which help the glorious past of the city alive. Here is your guide to exploring these top sites.
Popularly known as Ferry Building, the Auckland Ferry Terminal is located right in the heart of the city's bustling downtown area. The building is fashioned in the Edwardian Baroque style, and is constructed of sandstone and was completed in the year 1912. While you can take the site from a cruise, it's always a good idea to walk around the building and take the site in. The view from the harbor is stunning and can be enjoyed while treating yourself to some tasty gelato from the store adjacent to the Ferry Building. This must-visit attraction can be visited with ease from most of the best hotels in Auckland including the likes of Avani Auckland Metropolis Residences with minimum hassle.
One of the city's best-loved architectural masterpieces in Auckland, the Town Hall has served the city and its residents since 1911. Built in a neo-Baroque style, consisting of five stories - it is made out of Omaru limestone and was completely restored between the ages of 1994 to 1997. Today this important site offers world-class concert halls and performance space and has the capacity to seat over 1500 people.
Another important landmark in the city, the Clock Tower at the University of Auckland was constructed in the middle of the 1920s and is also known as the Old Arts Building. Today, this historical site represents and symbolizes the success of the city's past as well as the university's.
Believed to be the world's largest wooden Gothic construction, Auckland's Anglican Cathedral of Saint Mary's was constructed in the year 1886. The grand building incorporates the finest elements of medieval design and happened to be the final project of the local eminent architect, Benjamin Woolfield Mountfort. The place of worship was first consecrated by Bishop Cowie in 1898. Visitors are free to visit the site from Tuesday to Friday, from any time between 10:00 to 3:00 pm or if possible by prior arrangements. Do keep in mind that there are many services held throughout the week.
Famed for being one of Auckland's oldest remaining buildings, Ewelme Cottage dates back to 863 and was once the home of Reverend Vicesimus Lush and his family when they arrived at the colony. Today, the cottage is conserved and taken care of by the Historic Places Trust, and remains a true historical gem, as the cottage remained within the Lush family till the early 1960s and retained many of the family's original furniture and belongings dating back to the Victoria era. A visit will offer travellers a quintessential snapshot into life in New Zealand during the initial days of the colony.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
