Collaboration of Engineers and Architects.

The architectural development of the building and its precincts, also the supervision page 28 page 29 vision of its construction, has been in the hands of the well-known firm of architects, Messrs. Gummer and Ford. The basis of their work, however, has been the plans of the railway engineers for a railway station is in reality an intricate machine with very special and varying functions which require experience and expert knowledge of railway operations.

In common with the other important railway works in Auckland, the construction of the new station premises has been under the control of the Chief Engineer, Mr. F. C. Widdop, M.Inst. C.E., who recently made an extensive investigation of railway systems throughout the world.

Associated with the architects in the planning of the new station, and collaborating with them throughout the work of construction and equipment, has been the Assistant Chief Engineer, Mr. W. R. Davidson, M.Inst. C.E., who also has had the advantage of an intimate study of many modern railway stations abroad.

This very necessary collaboration between engineer and architect precluded the submission of the station plans for competition, and led to the direct selection of a firm of architects of proved ability, whose work speaks for them so impressively to-day, and will continue so to speak in the years to come.

Messrs. Gummer and Ford and their staff have every reason to be proud of their work. The station with its precincts, as designed by them, is a wonderful embodiment of simplicity, utility and beauty, and forms a splendid addition to the architecture of Auckland.