The first wooden pier built to service cargo ships arriving at Waitematā Harbour was constructed in 1862. The name Queens Wharf honored the reigning Queen Victoria. During the last century, this waterfront has evolved extensively and become a very busy place. The Edwardian Baroque style building in the background opened in 1912 as the Auckland Ferry Terminal. The landmark was converted to retail space in the 1990s when a new ship-shaped ferry terminal was constructed at its base. The wharf was rebuilt with ironwork at the turn of the 20th century and then concrete during the 1960s. Along the 1,150 foot pier is Shed 10, the main terminal for cruise ships. Next to it is The Cloud, a 585 foot, white-canopied event complex built for the Rugby World Cup in 2011. Near the port’s entrance is a large souvenir store. The iconic Queens Wharf Gates and Red Fence were added from 1913 until 1923. You will enjoy following the Red Fence Heritage Walk. Along the 1.5 miles are signposts explaining the historic features of the Auckland waterfront.
