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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Auckland Provincial District]

Wharves, Jetties and Docks

Wharves, Jetties and Docks.

The principal wharf is the largest in the Colony, and in some other respects it is second only to that of Wellington. When fairly filled with vessels the main wharf presents a very noble appearance; but recent additions, notably the fine jetties of the Northern Steamship Company, have so reduced the demand for berth age at the principal, but less convenient wharf that it not infrequently looks rather bare, more especially to visitors accustomed to the shorter and more compact wharf of Wellington. The absence of hydraulic cranes, such as are conspicuously plentiful on the wharves of the capital, is noticeable, as instead of these there is about a third of the number of hand cranes. The shed accommodation, too, would appear deficient if compared with that of Wellington, notwithstanding the really fine structure erected in place of the old shed destroyed by fire in 1897. Yet Auckland does a large shipping trade, and claims to head the list of New Zealand ports in the number and tonnage of ships arriving and departing, and also in the amount of Customs duties.

The Railway Wharf is not a very imposing structure, but, taken altogether, the wharves and jetties of Auckland are highly creditable and are worked with economy.

In docks Auckland has decidedly the leading position. It is claimed that the Calliope Dock is one of the largest in the world, and certainly it is large enough, for it can very comfortably accommodate two warships, such as usually visit the Colony, and the largest vessel afloat at present is not too big page 59
Wharves and Jetties.

Wharves and Jetties.

for it. The recognition of this dock by the British Admiralty is a matter upon which Auckland may be congratulated in unqualified terms. The Auckland Dock, at the foot of Hobson Street, is an exceedingly useful maritime possession.