University Clock Tower, Auckland
Formerly known as the Old Arts building, the ClockTower was designed by R.A. Lippincott, an architect trained in Chicago who happened to be the brother-in-law of Walter Burley Griffin, the renowned designer of Canberra.
This 54-meter tall tower is constructed with Mount Somers stone and was inspired by the famous Tom Tower of Christ Church, Oxford. Over time, it has become a symbol of the University. Inside, there's an octagonal layout with vaulted ceilings, galleries, a mosaic floor, and supporting pillars.
For many years, the building served as the home to various academic departments including Arts, Architecture, Law, Music, and the Library, along with University Hall. The rear wing offered limited student facilities until the opening of the Student Union Building in 1968.
From 1985 to 1988, the main wing underwent extensive renovations, strengthening, and cleaning, restoring its original whiteness that led to its popular nickname, "the wedding cake." This significant reconstruction effort earned recognition from the Institute of Architects.
Today, the ClockTower houses the Vice-Chancellor, the Vice-Chancellor鈥檚 Office, the Equity Office, parts of Academic Services, the Great Hall, and the Council Room. It stands as the most iconic building of the University of Auckland and is open to the public at no charge.
This 54-meter tall tower is constructed with Mount Somers stone and was inspired by the famous Tom Tower of Christ Church, Oxford. Over time, it has become a symbol of the University. Inside, there's an octagonal layout with vaulted ceilings, galleries, a mosaic floor, and supporting pillars.
For many years, the building served as the home to various academic departments including Arts, Architecture, Law, Music, and the Library, along with University Hall. The rear wing offered limited student facilities until the opening of the Student Union Building in 1968.
From 1985 to 1988, the main wing underwent extensive renovations, strengthening, and cleaning, restoring its original whiteness that led to its popular nickname, "the wedding cake." This significant reconstruction effort earned recognition from the Institute of Architects.
Today, the ClockTower houses the Vice-Chancellor, the Vice-Chancellor鈥檚 Office, the Equity Office, parts of Academic Services, the Great Hall, and the Council Room. It stands as the most iconic building of the University of Auckland and is open to the public at no charge.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Auckland. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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University Clock Tower on Map
Sight Name: University Clock Tower
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:
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