Ferry Building — Attraction in Waitematā

Standing in front of Auckland’s Ferry Building feels like stepping into another time. Its grand, old-world architecture facing the harbor makes it a timeless landmark, watching over the comings and goings of countless lives.

I’ve walked past it many times, yet I always pause to admire it. There’s something special about the contrast — this elegant historic façade surrounded by the rush of modern ferries and busy footsteps.

Every journey that begins here, even to nearby islands, carries a sense of quiet adventure. At sunset, the building glows with golden light, while seagulls cry overhead and ferry horns echo across the bay.

It’s not just a building. It’s a portal — to the past, to new horizons, or to a quiet...

Catching the Half Moon Bay ferry is definitely the way to go if you are commuting from East AKL, assuming the timings line up.

The services just make life so much easier than catching the bus, train or driving as getting to the city from the east side is usually challenging.

Services from Half Moon Bay have more timings during peak hours, and there are usually plenty of carparks that are free at the terminal. I would say as long as you are catching a ferry no later than the 8:15AM into town, you should be fine.

Very soon they will have electric ferries which will make life much easier in the event of a breakdown or moving faster.

Highly recommend...

Given that it's the hub for transport from the CBD to the wider Hauraki Gulf (most notably Rangitoto Island, Waiheke Island and Devonport), it is surprisingly poorly designed. It becomes congested very quickly, often resulting in long wait times to buy tickets or board vessels. If you are relying on a ferry as part of your journey, you are well-advised to allow plenty of time. There is a small selection of shops selling various goods, but I would highly recommend checking out Harbour Info if you are in need of guidance for where to head or recommendations for activities. Their staff are friendly and helpful as well as being very knowledgeable...