Venue Spotlight: Auckland Town Hall

Hōro ā-Tāone o Tāmaki Makaurau | Auckland Town Hall is a prestigious heritage venue perfect for gala dinners, business events, and more.

Built in 1911 and fully restored in the 1990s for modern event use, this Edwardian Baroque landmark is renowned for its striking stained-glass windows, ornate plasterwork, and elegant chandeliers. The versatile Great Hall and Concert Chamber feature removable theatre-style seating, transforming into large open spaces ideal for various functions.

The venue has hosted dignitaries and events of all kinds, from exhibitions and award ceremonies to school balls and launch parties. Its sophisticated design also accommodates custom theming, making it a flexible and elegant choice. 

Explore the images below and step into the splendour of the Auckland Town Hall.

The Auckland Town Hall - Hōro ā-Tāone o Tāmaki Makaurau - is a Category A heritage building and a landmark of significant political and cultural importance since its opening in 1911. Renowned for its Great Hall and Concert Chamber, it also houses New Zealand’s largest musical instrument: a 114-year-old pipe organ.

Designed by Australian architects JJ & EJ Clarke, the imperial Baroque-style structure closely resembles Lambeth Town Hall in Brixton, London.

Built from South Island Oamaru limestone atop a base of Australian bluestone, the five-storey building boasts a wealth of original features, including kauri floors, decorative pressed metal ceilings and plasterwork, stained glass windows, cast iron balustrades, porcelain and glazed ceramic tiling, and hand-blown chandeliers.

The four-faced clock in the tower was a gift from former Auckland mayor and Member of Parliament, Sir Arthur Myers.

Located in the Great Hall, the Auckland Town Hall Organ is the largest musical instrument in New Zealand. Originally built in 1911 by Norman & Beard, it was rebuilt in 2010 using many of its original components. The organ features 114 stops, over 5,000 pipes and blowers, and a ten-horsepower wind system.

Among its distinctive features are two unique stops that replicate the sounds of the Māori kōauau (flute) and pūkāea (trumpet). Thanks to Auckland Live - part of our whānau - and the Auckland Town Hall Organ Trust, the free Organ Sunday concert series has become a much-loved highlight of the Great Hall’s annual musical programme.

The bronze bust of leading New Zealand suffragist, Kate Sheppard (1847-1934), is located at the top of the foyer staircase.

The bust was a gift to the city from Parisian Neckwear Co, Ltd., in recognition of the contribution of women to society, and those who have worked at the Auckland-based company.