Beyond the red fence

Abstract

The Auckland waterfront was historically an industrially dominated zone which discouraged unfettered public access beyond the red fence onto the working wharves. With the sporadic development of a now recreational city unguided by a cohesive urban plan, the waterfront, now partially public space, has remained a disconnected and unengaged element to the city as it is still largely characterised by its former role in shipping.

Queens Wharf is located at the base of Auckland city’s main pedestrian arterial route ; however, due to its undeveloped state, it does not hold a sense of place along this pedestrian corridor which dissipates at the harbour’s edge despite serving Auckland as the place of arrival for cruise ships. The waterfront was vital for the commercial growth of Auckland city and was the location that connected Auckland to the rest of the world ; therefore, its industrial and social significance aremonumental components to the heritage of Auckland’s waterfront.

This research project attempts to knit Queens Wharf seamlessly to Auckland City by developing an improved transport hub to connect local residents and tourists within the city and to wider Auckland, and by acknowledging its rich history architecturally.

The cruise terminal facility and domestic ferry port will be developed to accommodate the expectant demographic growth to provide a memorable journey for passengers. A defined onward transportation area to circulate pedestrians to and from the site will support these facilities and establish a connection from the harbour and a continuation on one’s journey to the rest of the city. Quay Street will be addressed to provide for pedestrians crossing this heavy vehicular dominated arterial route and to give Queens Wharf a sense of place by accenting its historical significance through design.

The aim of this project is to enhance the experience of a cruise tourist disembarking from a vessel, by providing a memorable experience through architecture. Development of an existing cruise terminal supported by an urban master plan will establish a cohesive pedestrian transition from the waterfront to the city.