Aotea Square |
As a public outdoor space, Aotea Square is open all day, all year round.
For events such as the Auckland Arts Festival, a box office is available in the Square for shows - opening hours vary depending on the event.
About Aotea Square
A two-year redevelopment programme completed in 2010 has seen the Square expand to now accommodate up to 20,000 people.
At the Queen Street entrance, you'll find Te Waharoa (Gateway) formed in wood and copper by Māori sculptor Selwyn Muru (Ngāti Kurī, Ngāpuhi). An expressionist version of a traditional Māori entry gate, it features symbols including birds, fish, the crescent moon and stars, and the symbol for nuclear disarmament.
The main paved area of the Square is the Marae Ātea. This term translates to mean a courtyard or public forum, and the name given to the open area in front of the wharenui on a marae; a place where formal welcomes to visitors take place and issues are debated. The marae ātea is the domain of Tūmatauenga, the atua (god) of war and people, and therefore the appropriate place to raise contentious issues. It's a symbolic reference to Aotea Square's long history as a site of public protest and civic gatherings.
Trees, predominately native species, are a key feature of the site offering shade while not interrupting the views of what's happening in the Square. Terraced, grassed areas have been introduced along with granite paving and steps. Long benches and clustered seats provide seating throughout the Square, making it a great place to relax on a sunny day. Pole lighting illuminates the pathways, trees, and seats at night while low-glare dome fittings provide subtle lighting in the paved and lawn areas. New Zealand artworks are prominently positioned around the area.
Following the redevelopment, Aotea Square is now able to host a much greater range of events and public gatherings. Key events in the calendar year include Auckland Live Summer in the Square, the Auckland Arts Festival, and the Aotea Square Ice Rink.
Aotea Arts Quarter and Aotea Square
The Aotea Arts Quarter is the civic, arts, and cultural heart for the people of Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau: a vibrant, resilient, and unique place to indulge the senses, express creativity, and celebrate our many diverse peoples and cultures.
Aotea Square is in the heart of the Aotea Arts Quarter and is one of Auckland city's most important public spaces. Auckland Live stages live events and activations across Auckland, including the Aotea Square, to ensure we play our part in making Tāmaki Makaurau a great place to be and for everyone to enjoy.
❊ Address ❊
⊜ 291-297 Queen Street, Auckland View Map
✆ Telephone: 09 309 2677
❊ Web Links ❊
➼ Aotea Square
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