Two-storey brick commercial building with arched windows and 'The Northern Steam Ship Company Ltd 1898' signage, horse and cart on street

Northern Steamship Company Building

Northern Steamship Company Building Auckland: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Situated prominently on Quay Street in Auckland’s Britomart precinct, the Northern Steamship Company Building is a cornerstone of New Zealand’s maritime heritage and urban evolution. Built in 1899 as the headquarters for the Northern Steamship Company, this Edwardian Baroque landmark reflects Auckland’s transformation from a waterfront shipping hub to a thriving metropolitan center. Today, the building stands as a vibrant blend of preserved architecture and contemporary hospitality, welcoming locals and travelers to experience its rich history and lively atmosphere (DigitalNZ; Auckland Council Heritage; Heritage New Zealand).

Historical Context and Construction

Commissioned at the height of Auckland’s commercial expansion, the Northern Steamship Company Building was completed in 1899 to serve a rapidly growing coastal shipping industry. The Northern Steamship Company, founded in 1881, operated a fleet that connected Auckland with remote North Island communities, facilitating the movement of goods and people when land transport was limited.

Architecturally, the building is an exemplar of Edwardian Baroque style, featuring robust red brickwork, ornate cornices, arched windows, and Oamaru stone detailing. Its prominent location adjacent to the city’s wharves enabled efficient coordination between sea and land transport, playing a pivotal role in Auckland’s economic and social development (Heritage New Zealand; Britomart).

Architectural Features and Conservation

The Northern Steamship Company Building’s symmetrical façade, highlighted by a central entrance and decorative pilasters, is a testament to late 19th-century commercial design. Notable features include:

Original brick and stone construction ensuring durability and historic authenticity.
Arched windows and ornate cornices that exemplify Edwardian architectural preferences.
Restored timber detailing and high-stud interiors with exposed kauri beams.
Conservation efforts that have integrated seismic strengthening and modern amenities without compromising heritage value (Peddlethorp Architects; Resene).

Meticulous restoration, especially in the early 2000s, focused on preserving key elements while adapting the building for contemporary use, earning it Category 1 Historic Place recognition (Auckland Council Heritage).

Beyond its architectural merits, the building was a social nexus for Auckland’s waterfront, serving as a key point of departure and arrival for passengers and freight. For decades, it was the headquarters for one of New Zealand’s largest coastal shipping companies, especially vital during both World Wars, when its fleet was requisitioned for military logistics (NZ Maritime Museum). The building’s ongoing presence and adaptive reuse as a hospitality venue reinforce its role as a living symbol of Auckland’s maritime identity.

Adaptive Reuse: Contemporary Role

Today, the building’s ground floor houses The Brit Pub & Eatery (formerly Northern Steamship Co. Bar), a celebrated gastropub that skillfully merges heritage features with modern design. Noteworthy aspects include:

Quirky interiors with upside-down lampshades, exposed brick, and maritime memorabilia.
Diverse dining options, New Zealand craft beers, and regular live events (Joylab Group).
Flexible event spaces for private functions and community gatherings.

Upper floors accommodate offices for creative firms, reflecting the building’s adaptability and ongoing economic relevance.

Visiting Hours, Admission, and Accessibility

Venue Hours: Open daily from 11:00 am until late (confirm current hours on the official website), with potential variations for public holidays and private events.
Admission: Free entry; no tickets required for the bar and restaurant. Office spaces are not open to the public.
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible entrance and restrooms. The building is directly opposite Britomart Transport Centre, with nearby parking and easy public transport connections (AT Metro).

Events, Experiences, and Guided Tours

The Brit Pub & Eatery is a lively hub for:

Weekly quiz nights, live music, and themed events.
Seasonal celebrations such as Auckland Anniversary Day and Waitangi Day.
Private event hosting for corporate and social functions.

While there are no regular public tours, special heritage events and guided walks may be available through local organizations (Heritage New Zealand; Britomart).

Surrounding Attractions

Located in Auckland’s Britomart precinct, the building offers easy access to:

Britomart Transport Centre and Takutai Square
Auckland Waterfront and Viaduct Harbour
Auckland Art Gallery and the Ferry Building
Boutique shopping, weekly markets, and waterfront promenades (Britomart; Heart of the City)

Tips for Visitors

Best visited on weekday afternoons for a quieter ambiance; evenings and weekends are livelier.
Reservations recommended for groups of six or more.
Smart-casual dress code preferred, especially in the evenings.
Photography is welcome, but please respect other patrons’ privacy.
Combine your visit with a walking tour of Britomart’s other heritage buildings or a stroll along the waterfront.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Open daily from 11:00 am until late. Check the official site for updates.

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No; entry to the bar and restaurant is free.

Q: Is the building accessible?
A: Yes, with wheelchair access and accessible restrooms.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: No regular tours, but special heritage events may include guided visits.

Q: Can I make reservations?
A: Yes, especially recommended for larger groups or during special events.

Visuals and Media

High-quality images and virtual tours are available on the Britomart website. Use descriptive alt text—e.g., “Northern Steamship Company Building exterior, Auckland waterfront”—to enhance accessibility.

Summary and Final Tips

The Northern Steamship Company Building continues to embody Auckland’s maritime and commercial legacy, offering visitors a unique blend of historic ambience and modern amenities. Its central location, free entry, and vibrant hospitality venues make it an ideal starting point for exploring the Britomart precinct and Auckland’s waterfront. Visitors are encouraged to:

Explore architectural details and participate in special events.
Support heritage preservation by engaging with local history.
Stay updated on upcoming events via official channels and the Audiala app (DigitalNZ; Peddlethorp Architects).

Plan your visit and immerse yourself in Auckland’s storied past through this remarkable landmark.