Discovering Commercial Bay in Downtown Auckland
Commercial Bay is located at the north end of Queen Street in Downtown Auckland, bordered by Lower Albert Street, Komititanga Plaza, and Waitemata Train Station. This area is a bustling hub with modern high-rise commercial buildings overlooking the Waitematā Harbour. On the lower floors, you'll find a large shopping mall and a vibrant food hall. Directly opposite is the historic Ferry Building and the main ferry wharves, which provide access to the harbour and islands of the Hauraki Gulf. To the west, between the Viaduct and Commercial Bay, lies Princes Wharf, the primary port for cruise ships.
Historical Background of Commercial Bay
Originally known as Onepanea, Commercial Bay was the name Europeans gave to the bay west of Britomart Point / Te Rerenga Ora Iti when Auckland was established in 1840. Smale's Point marked the bay's western boundary, separating it from Freemans Bay. The name Commercial Bay was chosen as it was intended to be the city's business district.
Development and Transformation
Queen Street was developed from north to south alongside the Waihorotiu Stream, which flowed into Commercial Bay. The stream was eventually covered, and by 1859, a seawall was constructed from Fort Street to Customs Street East, straightening the previously curved coastline.
Between 1860 and 1920, the headlands on both sides of the bay were quarried for fill, extending the shoreline to Quay Street and transforming the area into a commercial waterfront. As a result, Freemans Bay became an inland suburb of central Auckland, and the name Commercial Bay faded away along with the bay itself. A plaque at the south end of Komititanga Plaza marks the original coastline before Auckland's expansion.
Modern Redevelopment
From 2010 to 2020, Commercial Bay underwent a complete redevelopment, and the historical name was reinstated. Today, it stands as a testament to Auckland's growth and transformation over the years.
How to Get to Commercial Bay
Commercial Bay lies between Komititanga Plaza Station, Quay Street and Lower Hobson Street, with easy access from ferries, trains and on foot from various bus services and Queen Street. It is a natural part of a walk along the waterfront. Parking can be constrained and expensive in this part of the city, but it is feasible.
To explore the waterfront, start at Britomart, wander west past the train station through Commercial Bay to the Viaduct, then continue to the Wynyard Quarter, Tank Farm and Westhaven Marina.
