Union Fish Company Building

Union Fish Company Building Auckland: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, is renowned for its dynamic waterfront and deep maritime heritage. Among its most significant historical landmarks is the Union Fish Company Building at 116-118 Quay Street in the Britomart precinct. This early 20th-century brick neo-classical structure embodies the city’s commercial and architectural heritage, reflecting the growth of Auckland’s fishing industry and its evolution into a bustling port city. Today, the building stands as a testament to the city’s enduring relationship with the sea, offering visitors a gateway to Auckland’s history and vibrant urban culture. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Union Fish Company Building—including its historical background, architectural features, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, nearby attractions, and practical tips to ensure a memorable visit (nzhistory.govt.nz, Britomart Architecture, AucklandNZ, Auckland Council Heritage Counts 2024).

Early Development of Auckland’s Waterfront and Fishing Industry
Growth of Sanford Limited and the Union Fish Company
Architectural and Cultural Significance
Visiting the Union Fish Company Building: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Nearby Attractions and Heritage Walks
Dining, Facilities, and Amenities
Practical Tips and Visitor FAQs
Summary and Recommendations
References

Early Development of Auckland’s Waterfront and Fishing Industry

Auckland’s transformation into a major port city began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with the waterfront becoming a center for trade and industry. The area surrounding Quay Street emerged as a focal point for shipping, with the fishing industry playing a vital role in the city’s economic growth (nzhistory.govt.nz). Entrepreneurs like Albert Sanford pioneered commercial fishing in the Hauraki Gulf, establishing supply chains that linked Auckland to the wider region. By the early 1900s, the waterfront was lined with warehouses, shipping offices, and facilities supporting maritime enterprises.

Growth of Sanford Limited and the Union Fish Company

The Union Fish Company and Sanford Limited were pivotal in shaping Auckland’s seafood industry. Sanford, established in the 1870s, expanded operations with innovative fishing techniques and a growing fleet, culminating in the formal creation of Sanford Limited in 1904 (sanford.co.nz). The Union Fish Company, meanwhile, became a key player in distribution and processing, anchoring its operations in the purpose-built brick building on Quay Street. Over the decades, both companies adapted to economic challenges, technological changes, and regulatory shifts, merging and acquiring rivals to maintain their influence in New Zealand’s seafood sector.

The Union Fish Company Building, constructed around 1904–1906 and attributed to architect RM Watt, was originally designed to facilitate the rapid transit of fresh catches from harbor to market (Britomart Architecture). Its strategic location, robust construction, and utilitarian features underscore its vital role in Auckland’s maritime economy.

Architectural and Cultural Significance

Design and Features

The Union Fish Company Building is a striking example of early 20th-century commercial architecture in Auckland. Key features include:

Brick Neo-Classical Façade: Durable and elegant, reflecting both the prosperity and aspirations of the era.
Arched Windows and Wide Doorways: Maximizing natural light and enabling efficient movement of goods.
Decorative Cornices and Parapets: Subtle details that blend Edwardian commercial utility with understated grace.

Careful restoration has preserved much of the original fabric, with the building now integrated into the urban landscape of Britomart (OurAuckland). Its presence maintains visual continuity with neighboring heritage sites and contributes to the precinct’s unique character (Auckland Council Heritage Counts 2024).

Heritage Status and Adaptive Reuse

Though not individually registered as a Category 1 or 2 Historic Place, the building is recognized as a significant heritage asset in the Auckland Unitary Plan and remains a focal point for heritage walks (Britomart Architecture). Its adaptive reuse—housing acclaimed restaurants and offices—demonstrates Auckland’s commitment to balancing preservation with contemporary needs.

Visiting the Union Fish Company Building: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours

Exterior Access: Freely accessible at all times; best experienced during daylight hours.
Interior Access: Ground-floor restaurants (Ebisu, Oji Sushi) are open daily, typically from midday until late evening. Office access is limited to business hours.
Guided Tours: Heritage walks occasionally include the building; check the Britomart website or local visitor centers for schedules.

Tickets and Entry

General Entry: Free to view the exterior and enter public areas during restaurant hours.
Dining: Standard restaurant charges apply; reservations are recommended for Ebisu.
Tours: Some heritage tours require tickets, often covering multiple waterfront sites (Auckland Scenic Tours).

Accessibility

Transport: Short walk from Britomart Transport Centre and Downtown Ferry Terminal.
Parking: Available in nearby facilities but can be limited and costly (Agoda Travel Guide).
Physical Access: Ground floor is wheelchair accessible; check with venues for detailed accommodations.

Nearby Attractions and Heritage Walks

The Union Fish Company Building is a highlight of Britomart’s heritage walks, connecting visitors to:

Northern Steamship Company Building
Seafarers Building
Australis House
New Zealand Maritime Museum
Viaduct Harbour precinct

Maps and walking tour details are available from the Britomart Information Centre and iSITE New Zealand.

Dining, Facilities, and Amenities

Ebisu Restaurant: Modern Japanese cuisine in a heritage setting (Britomart Union Fish Company).
Oji Sushi: Casual Japanese dining.
Nearby Cafés and Bars: Abundant options throughout Britomart and Viaduct Harbour.
Public Amenities: Accessible restrooms, Wi-Fi, and shaded seating along the waterfront (Agoda Travel Guide).

Practical Tips and Visitor FAQs

Best Time to Visit: Daylight hours for photography; early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting.
Dress Code: Smart casual for dining at Ebisu; casual attire suitable elsewhere.
Reservations: Recommended for restaurants, especially on weekends and holidays.
Photography: Exterior and interior photography welcomed in public areas; respect privacy of other patrons.
Weather: Auckland weather is changeable; bring a rain jacket and use sunscreen (Lonely Planet).
Payment: Most venues accept cards and contactless payments; cash is rarely needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: The exterior is accessible at all times; interior access aligns with restaurant and office hours.

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: Viewing the exterior is free; dining and guided tours may incur charges.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, through Britomart heritage walks and third-party operators (Auckland Scenic Tours).

Q: Is the building accessible for those with mobility needs?
A: The ground floor is wheelchair accessible; confirm additional needs directly with venues.

Q: What other heritage sites are nearby?
A: The New Zealand Maritime Museum, Northern Steamship Company Building, and Viaduct Harbour are all within walking distance.

Summary and Recommendations

The Union Fish Company Building is a vibrant symbol of Auckland’s maritime history and an outstanding example of heritage preservation in a modern urban context. Its distinctive architecture, central location, and lively dining options make it a must-visit for anyone interested in Auckland’s past or present. For the best experience:

Plan your visit during daylight hours.
Book ahead if dining at Ebisu.
Combine your visit with a heritage walk to explore nearby historical sites.
Consult official tourism resources for the latest events and tour schedules.

Embrace Auckland’s maritime legacy and enjoy the unique blend of history, culture, and hospitality at the Union Fish Company Building (OurAuckland, Britomart Architecture, Auckland Scenic Tours, AucklandNZ).

References

For more information on Auckland’s heritage sites, download the Audiala app, explore related posts, and follow local organizations on social media for the latest updates and events.