Discover the University of Auckland
Located in Downtown Auckland, Auckland, the University of Auckland / Waipapa Taumata Rau stretches mainly from Princes Street, across Symonds Street and into Grafton Gully. The university is not only a centre for education but also a place of historical and architectural interest. This provides for an enjoyable short walk around the historical campus, centred on the iconic Clock Tower and Old Government House, which had been underutilised after the capital moved to Wellington in 1865.
Historical Background
Established in 1883 as a constituent college of the University of New Zealand, the university's original buildings and grounds are situated on Princes Street, directly opposite Albert Park. Despite the near-continuous expansion of the university since its inception, its original grounds offer a peaceful retreat.
The gardens surrounding the Clock Tower and Old Government House feature expansive grassed areas and large exotic trees, many dating back to when Auckland was the capital of New Zealand. Recent plantings reflect a growing preference for native trees and shrubs. A map within the gardens identifies and locates the diverse plant species.
Notable sites include the modernist MacLaurin Chapel and the charming Lodge building in the northwest corner of the gardens. South of the Clock Tower on Princes Street, you will find historic Alfred Nathan House. On the west side of Princess Street, north of Albert Park, there are several large historic merchant houses.
The area is perfect for a quiet escape from the city and complements a walk along the east side of Downtown Auckland, including Albert Park.
Expansion of the Campus and Facilities
Over the years, the University of Auckland has grown significantly, extending south and east from its original precinct. It now comprises eight faculties, two research institutes, the Elam School of Fine Arts, and various other institutes and centres. The campus includes a business school and a medical school located in Grafton, with a major development site on Khyber Pass in Newmarket. With an enrolment of 43,000 students, it is New Zealand's largest university, occupying four large city blocks primarily filled with high-rise buildings.
The Addition of Waipapa Taumata Rau
In 2021, Ngāti Whātua gifted the Māori name Waipapa Taumata Rau. This refers to the pursuit of excellence in the Waipapa area. Waipapa was the name of a historic Māori community in the area, and also refers to Waipapa Marae, the university marae.
The best way to see the modern campus and the marae is a walk up Symonds Street, between Allen Street and Wellesley Street. The marae is on the corner of Wellesley Street and St Paul Street.
How to Get There
The historic campus is primarily located between Princes Street and Grafton Gully. It is easily accessible by public transport, with several bus routes serving the area. If you are driving, parking is available in nearby streets and parking facilities.
The university can be easily combined with a walking tour of Downtown Auckland that takes in Britomart, the Viaduct, Queen Street, Myers Park, and the Lightpath.
