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Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, is a multicultural hub with an iconic skyline and variety of heritage sites. The stunning landmarks in the city are as beautiful as they are diverse, and will enthral both visitors and design enthusiasts alike. This is our list of the best man-made glories in Auckland.
The Sky Tower
For more than twenty years, the iconic Sky Tower has stood, providing breath-taking views in every direction from its observational deck. At a height of 328 meters, the building can be seen from almost anywhere in the city and it is in fact the tallest man-made structure in the entire Southern Hemisphere. It is constructed of reinforced concrete and the upper levels of the tower were made from structural steel and composite materials. It was designed by architect Gordon Muller, who worked with Fletcher Construction to complete the project in 1997.
The Ferry Building
Auckland’s Ferry Terminal, often dubbed the Ferry Building, is a nostalgic sight, constructed in the Edwardian Baroque architectural style. The building serves as a ferry terminal, providing the link between the Auckland CBD and Waitemata Harbour. Designed by architect Alex Wiseman, it has been a landmark since its doors opened in 1912. It was originally a four-storey building, but an extra floor was built in the 1980s, on top of the building getting a complete exterior renovation. Today, ferry passengers still pass through the building and it’s open every day to visit.
Auckland Harbour Bridge
The Auckland Harbour Bridge is an iconic attraction in New Zealand, famous for its bungee jumping and bridge climbing. It was constructed between 1955 and 1959. This motorway bridge is 1,020 meters long, equals 9 spans and was designed by Freeman & Partners. Built over the Waitemata harbour, it offers stunning views of the surrounding areas.
The Lighthouse
Hundreds of people attended the unveiling of Michael Parekowhai’s $1.5 million lighthouse sculpture on Auckland’s waterfront earlier this year. It was designed in the form of a classic Kiwi state house and the interior features glass chandeliers, neon lights and a giant Captain Cook sculpture. The structure is public art and refers to New Zealand’s architectural and social history. The work has caused some controversy with some seeing the work as insensitive, coming at a time when inflated Auckland house prices are leaving people homeless. There’s no doubting its artistic value and its ability to create conversation in and around Auckland should be congratulated.
Onehunga Foreshore
Onehunga’s shore was once dominated by breakwaters that cut off residents from the water. Now, the area has been reclaimed as a part of a restoration project, which is one of the New Zealand’s largest ever projects of this nature. Nine new beaches have been created on the existing coastal area and the project includes a cycle and pedestrian bridge. The gateway bridge connects Onehunga to the foreshore. Although the Onehunga Bay reserve has always been there, the coast has been extensively modified to create one of the city’s most loved recreational spaces.
While New Zealand’s main attraction is its rich, scenic natural landscapes, it hosts some of the greatest landmarks made by the hand of man, many of which can be found in Auckland. Auckland’s map of man-made landmarks is incredibly diverse, each bringing their own innovation, history and conversation to the city.
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