Auckland unveils cruise future

AUCKLAND will open a new international cruise ship terminal, named Te Waharoa, in early 2027 in what the port says is part of its aim to further revitalise downtown Auckland and inject new energy into the city’s central wharves.

Located on Quay St, Te Waharoa is a new global gateway to the city and part of a wider NZ$200 million investment by Port of Auckland into the city’s cruise precinct, including the development of a new big ship wharf at Bledisloe North.

Port of Auckland chief executive Roger Gray said Auckland is growing — with a need to recognise that growth by setting the city up for the future.

“We’re investing in infrastructure that supports Auckland’s long-term prosperity. Te Waharoa international cruise terminal is a major step in building a thriving, globally connected city.

“More than 300,000 cruise passengers currently pass through the port each year, and Te Waharoa — designed to handle up to 1,500 people an hour — will help attract more ship calls while ensuring the efficient movement of visitors and a high quality first impression of Auckland as they arrive in the heart of the city,” Mr Gray said.

Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust deputy chair Ngarimu Blair praised the step towards “the kind of international city Auckland should be — one that helps to reinvigorate our economy, and delights and exceeds global standards because it is uniquely informed by us as tangata whenua, and by the stories of our place”.

Mayor of Auckland Wayne Brown said the launch of the new terminal and delivered on one of his key priorities to make the most of Auckland’s downtown area, port and waterfront.

“With 3,200 kilometres of coastline, Auckland’s harbour and waterfront is a big part of what makes our city unique. By opening up our wharves, we are transforming industrial zones into vibrant, accessible public spaces for visitors and Aucklanders. This is the kind of investment that will have a positive impact on Auckland’s CBD and our city’s economy,” he said.

Te Waharoa is being developed in collaboration with the port’s long-term partner, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, architect RCG and design agency Guardians.

Key highlights:

• Bledisloe North wharf will be able to support the large 350m vessels expected to visit New Zealand.

• Te Waharoa will include a new pick-up and drop-off area for buses and taxis going sightseeing around the region.

• Passengers will be able to walk straight into Britomart, to ferry services, hotels, restaurants and the surrounding areas.

• The new cruise area will also better facilitate efficient re-supply of cruise ships with New Zealand food and beverage.