NZ Visual Diary - entry 361

Ferry Building - illumination

In form and function, I love the Auckland Ferry Building.

From all points of view and times of day, the ferry building is beautiful. Against the backdrop of understated brickwork, elaborate but proportioned architectural refinements lend to the structure an elegant posture. It is a handsome and sophisticated visual anchor for the harbour front.

Completed in 1912, the Edwardian style building continues to serve as the central city’s port-of-call for its ferry service. That function beckons to me. I love ferry boats, and I am thankful that my Gold Card, a perk for senior citizens, permits me to ride the ferry to most neighbouring islands and Auckland’s North Shore at no cost.

In today’s image, with its gathering of spectacular clouds, I have attempted as well to bring into playful focus another treasured artefact of the harbour side: a street lamp with hints of Art Deco treatments that also make for a brilliant blend of form and function.