Ferry Building, Auckland, New Zealand

Visit duration: 30 min Editorial visit time estimate

Reviewed by Elena Voss · Roavina Travel Editor

About Ferry Building

The Ferry Building is the Edwardian Baroque focal point of the Auckland Ferry Terminal, also called the Downtown Ferry Terminal, on the southern edge of the Waitematā Harbour along Quay Street. Designed by Alex Wiseman and built by Philcox and Sons between 1909 and 1912, it is made of sandstone and brick on a base of Coromandel granite, on reclaimed land. Its four storeys and clock tower replaced an original five-storey plan after public outrage at the height. Heritage New Zealand lists it as Category 1.

Checked 2026-11-10 · Source

What's inside

The building was designed as a focal point for Auckland's ferry service and to earn income for the harbour board through leases; the Devonport Steam Ferry Company and the Takapuna Tramways Ferry Company both had their headquarters here. It was the main departure point for the North Shore until the Auckland Harbour Bridge opened in 1959, after which traffic declined. It was extensively restored from 1986 and reopened on 5 November 1988. Ferries now leave from a modern terminal in front of it, built in 2021.

Checked 2026-11-10 · Source

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Common questions

When was the Ferry Building built?

It was built between 1909 and 1912.

Do ferries still leave from the Ferry Building?

Yes, ferries depart from in front of it at a modern terminal built in 2021.

Where it is

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Nearby

Within 5 min on foot

45 min
2 min walk
Commercial Bay
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- Market
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4 min walk
Britomart Precinct
- Must see
- Historic site
1 hr 30 min
5 min walk
New Zealand Maritime Museum Hui Te Ananui a Tangaroa
- Must see · Heritage site
- Museum