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Queens Wharf to open to public on Anzac Day
Queens Wharf to open to public on Anzac Day
As the next step in a visionary plan to develop Auckland’s waterfront, Queens Wharf will be formally opened to the public on Anzac Day, Sunday 25 April.
A festival beginning at 1pm will celebrate the opening of the wharf as a public space. For most of its 104 year history the wharf has been locked behind the historical ‘red fence’.
“The red gates were built almost 100 years ago, and have remained firmly shut for most of this time,” says Mike Lee, Chair of the Auckland Regional Council.
“The Government and Auckland Regional Council bought the wharf so we can all enjoy part of Auckland’s waterfront right at the start of Queen Street. It will be a place where people celebrate, relax and are entertained – a place of national pride,” says Mr Lee.
“Queens Wharf will become Auckland’s front door for the thousands of cruise passengers that visit our shores each year.”
Celebrations on the day include going aboard naval ship HMNZS Rotoiti, tours of the waterfront on steam tug boat SS Puke, rowing Lake Karapiro via virtual technology with the RowBox currently touring the country, testing rugby skills, and cultural performances including Drums of the Pacific.
There will also be displays showcasing how Auckland’s waterfront will develop from the port along to Wynyard Quarter over the coming years.
Queens Wharf – named for its location at the end of Queen Street – was purchased for the people of Auckland by the Auckland Regional Council and the New Zealand Government. Queens Wharf and Queen Street were named after Queen Victoria. The Queen name has a strong maritime connection, with famous cruise ships such as the Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth II and Queen Victoria.
The 2.75ha wharf and 1.5km of surrounding waterfront boast spectacular panoramic views of the Waitemata Harbour and city. The wharf will be a public space for all to enjoy as well as a stage for events including the Rally of New Zealand and Rugby World Cup 2011.
Following the festival on Sunday 25 April, Queens Wharf will be straight to work as the Rally of New Zealand service base from 6 to 9 May.
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