Auckland Heritage Festival 2013

Yes, it's that time of year again when we celebrate Auckland's distinctive heritage! This year the festival runs from 28 September to 13 October and has around 240 events and activities organised by over 180 groups and organisations , many of which are free and will keep all ages amused. Contributors include Auckland Libraries, museums, historical societies, art galleries, historic homesteads and lighthouses, and events include trails, tours, workshops and talks.

Ref: 2013 Auckland Heritage Festival logo

The key themes around which events have been created are::

• Auckland’s waterways, including the land and sea
• Celebrating our heritage,  including Auckland’s distinctive built, cultural and natural heritage
• Learning and encouragement, such as workshops and lectures. 

Ref: 4-434, comparison of the Auckland waterfront in 1852 with 1900, c.1900, Sir George Grey Special Collections

The public open weekend on the 28 to 29 September marks the start of the festival. This year it will be held in the historic and recently renovated Shed 10 on Queens Wharf, from 10-4pm. Auckland Libraries will be at the shed on both days - drop by, we'd love to see you!

Flyer for talk by Sandra Coney, 30 September 2013

Find out more about the festival plus the program of events, including the free talk by Sandra Coney on Monday 30th September from 6-8pm in the Whare at Auckland Central Library. With the WW1 centenary coming up next year, this talk will be useful for local communities thinking about undertaking their own research into those involved in the war. Sandra will focus on her research into the life stories of the 49 men listed on the Roll of Honour on Lion Rock, Piha. Bookings are required for this talk.

Ref: 4-608, looking North from Quay Street showing Queen Street Wharf, 1880-1889, Sir George Grey Special Collections

Queens Wharf was the 2nd structure built on Auckland’s waterfront and is integral to the early history and economy of the developing city during the early colonial period. The wharf was was completed in 1913 and was vital for the movement of goods to both local and international ports. It was also a transportation hub for people coming in and out of Auckland.

Ref: 1-W1194, looking north over the harbour to Devonport, showing the Devonport Steam Ferry Company's jetty and Quay St Jetties, taken from the corner or Queen St and Quay St West, 1905, Sir George Grey Special Collections

Shed 10 is the only built link with the old Queens Wharf. There were originally 5 sheds on the wharf during the 1909 to 1914 period. Shed 10 is a double-storied building of utilitarian in design and measures 94.5 metres, which made it capable of holding the large cargo loads coming into the wharf.

Ref: 1-W1176, view north from masthead of Norwegian barque 'Guldregn', showing shipping at Queen Street Wharf , 1905, Sir George Grey Special Collections

In 2009, the wharf was  purchased by New Zealand Government and the Auckland Regional Council for the people of Auckland. Some work was carried out on the shed during 2011 including repairs to the doors and cladding and the shed was used as a venue for the Rugby World Cup in 2011. During September 2012 to July 2013, the shed was greatly refurbished and has been become a popular events venue and an important link to the past of this busy wharf.

Ref: 1-W1436, looking south west from the mast of the Silver Cloud at the Railway Wharf, showing Quay Street jetties no.4 and no.3, 1907, Sir George Grey Special Collections