Ferry Building

About Ferry Building

Ferry Building is a things to do venue in Auckland, South Island.

The building was constructed over two and a half years and completed in 1912. It was designed by Alex Wiseman and erected by Philcox and Sons.

The building is made of sandstone and brick with a base of Coromandel granite. The architectural style is Edwardian Baroque.

The original plans were for a five-storey structure, but after public outrage at the height, a design of four storeys and a clock tower was proposed. The plan was similar to that of the San Francisco Ferry Building.

The Ferry Building was the major departure point for people travelling to the North Shore until 1959, when the Auckland Harbour Bridge was opened. Today, the building is the hub of the city’s ferry system and sees 13,000 passengers pass through its ferry terminal daily.

The building still functions as a ferry terminal ticketing area and offers restaurants and cafes. The building has undergone renovations from 1986 to 1988.

A time ball was installed in the building, the belief being that it would help ships’ captains to set their chronometers accurately. The building was designated as a Category I historic place by the New Zealand Historic Places Trust in 1982.

The Ferry Building is a must-visit attraction for tourists visiting Auckland. The building’s historical significance and beautiful architecture make it a popular spot for photography and sightseeing.

The building is located in close proximity to other popular tourist attractions such as the Sky Tower, the Auckland Art Gallery, and the Viaduct Harbour.

Good to know

• Type: Things to Do
• Area: Auckland, South Island
• Phone: +64 800 385 5377
• Website: visit ↗

Frequently asked questions

Find more things to do in Auckland or browse the Auckland local guide.