About Auckland Town Hall

The Town Hall was specifically designed by Melbourne architects JJ and EJ Clark to fit the wedge-shaped piece of land acquired for it. Protected as a Category A heritage building, it was opened in 1911 by Baron Islington, New Zealand’s Governor General at the time. From 1994-1997 the building was fully restored, allowing the addition of modern amenities and re-establishing the building’s standing as a multi-functional venue and world class performance hall.

The Auckland Town Hall was officially opened on 14 December 1911 by Baron Islington, New Zealand’s Governor General at the time. The total cost of the project was 126,000 pounds, which included the price of purchasing additional land, and a few design changes during construction. Top architects from around the world were invited to submit designs and from 46 proposals, the design by Melbourne architects, JJ & EJ Clarke was chosen. This was in the Italian renaissance revival style and featured a five level, wedged-shaped building which accommodated the unusual shape of the site.

In 1994, the Auckland City Council embarked on a three-year, $32.8 million restoration and upgrade of the building. An emphasis was placed on restoring the interior and exterior to its former glory. 

Constructed from Oamaru limestone, this historic five-storey building with its distinctive clock tower, has many special features including kauri floors, decorative pressed metal ceilings and plasterwork, stained glass windows, cast iron balustrades, porcelain and glazed ceramic tiling, and hand blown chandeliers.

In February 2016, the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra relocated their operations to the Auckland Town Hall, bringing the administration and musicians under the one roof of their performance home.