Queen's Wharf
Auckland Central, Auckland, North Island, 1010
One of several wharves along Auckland's downtown waterfront, Queen’s Wharf is a ferry and cruise ship hub with a lively events and dining scene. After arriving by water or on foot, travelers can admire the views of Waitemata Harbour, grab lunch and a drink, and check out an art exhibit.
The basics
A wharf has existed in this spot since the mid-19th century, but the current face of Queen’s Wharf is relatively new. It was redeveloped into a modern cruise ship and ferry terminal in 2010. The Cloud and Shed 10 buildings host indoor events; in summer, there are outdoor art exhibits, yoga classes, and live music events.
Things to know before you go
Visiting doesn't require admission, but individual events sometimes do.
The wharf is a popular fishing spot. If you want to fish, arrive early.
The wharf is busy whenever Waitemata Harbour hosts yachting events.
How to get there
Queen’s Wharf lies at the bottom of Queen Street, central Auckland’s main thoroughfare, across Quay Street from bus stops along Customs Street and the Britomart Train Station. The wharf is also home to the Downtown Ferry Terminal and is easily reachable on foot or by sea, rail, and bus.
When to get there
There’s never a bad time to visit Queen’s Wharf, except perhaps when the passengers from a large cruise ship are disembarking. Take a quiet walk in the fresh early morning air, enjoy an al fresco lunch in the sun, shelter from bad weather at an indoor exhibition, or enjoy the skyline views of Auckland at night.
Viaduct Harbour
Just west of Queen’s Wharf is the Viaduct Harbour, another popular multi-use waterside development in central Auckland. Check out luxurious yachts and apartments here, and stop for lunch, dinner, or drinks at an upmarket restaurant. Strolling between Queen’s Wharf and the Viaduct, with a stop at Prince’s Wharf in between, is a good way to spend a few hours.
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