Three Lamps, Auckland
The Three Lamps area in Ponsonby takes its name from a distinctive cast-iron lamppost that once stood at the busy intersection of Ponsonby Road, Saint Mary's Road, Jervois Road, and College Hill. Installed in the 19th century, the triple-headed lamp quickly became a landmark and a popular meeting spot. By the 1930s, however, it was considered a traffic hazard and was removed. Decades later, in 2012, a replica was placed on the footpath to preserve its memory and restore the symbol that gave the district its enduring name.
Over the years, Three Lamps became more than just a reference to a streetlight. It marked the heart of Ponsonby鈥檚 social and cultural life, attracting a mix of communities and serving as a hub of activity. In the 20th century, the area was home to a diverse population, including many M膩ori and Pacific Island families. It developed a reputation for being both vibrant and gritty, with pubs, boarding houses, and live music venues shaping its character. By the 1970s and 1980s, it also gained recognition as a centre for counterculture, activism, and creative expression, further cementing its place in Auckland鈥檚 cultural history.
Today, Three Lamps reflects both its layered past and its modern appeal. Visitors can enjoy the lively mix of caf茅s, bars, and restaurants, alongside boutique shops and galleries that highlight Ponsonby鈥檚 contemporary style. The replica lamp serves as a reminder of the area鈥檚 heritage while the streets around it buzz with energy, offering a blend of history and modern urban life.
Over the years, Three Lamps became more than just a reference to a streetlight. It marked the heart of Ponsonby鈥檚 social and cultural life, attracting a mix of communities and serving as a hub of activity. In the 20th century, the area was home to a diverse population, including many M膩ori and Pacific Island families. It developed a reputation for being both vibrant and gritty, with pubs, boarding houses, and live music venues shaping its character. By the 1970s and 1980s, it also gained recognition as a centre for counterculture, activism, and creative expression, further cementing its place in Auckland鈥檚 cultural history.
Today, Three Lamps reflects both its layered past and its modern appeal. Visitors can enjoy the lively mix of caf茅s, bars, and restaurants, alongside boutique shops and galleries that highlight Ponsonby鈥檚 contemporary style. The replica lamp serves as a reminder of the area鈥檚 heritage while the streets around it buzz with energy, offering a blend of history and modern urban life.
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Three Lamps on Map
Sight Name: Three Lamps
Sight Location: Auckland, New Zealand (See walking tours in Auckland)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Auckland, New Zealand (See walking tours in Auckland)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Auckland, New Zealand
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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.6 Km or 2.9 Miles
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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles
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Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles
Parnell Introduction Walking Tour
Parnell, Auckland鈥檚 oldest suburb, is a charming blend of history, culture, and modern lifestyle. Just minutes from the city center, it is known for its beautifully restored Victorian and Edwardian buildings that now house boutique shops, art galleries, and cafes. One of the suburb鈥檚 highlights is Parnell Road, the main street lined with stylish eateries, fashion boutiques, and specialty... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.2 Km or 1.4 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.2 Km or 1.4 Miles
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