Downtown Terminal (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Downtown Terminal?
What makes it 58% Baby-Friendly: The concourse is stroller-friendly and has toilets with some change tables plus nearby stroller hire, yet no nursing room and occasional steps during ferry boarding lower convenience.
Positives:
- Scenic Waterfront Views: Offers wide harbour vistas perfect for family photos and calm stroller rides.
- Historic Architecture: The Edwardian Baroque terminal facade adds a cultural backdrop to your visit.
Challenges:
- No Dedicated Nursing Room: The terminal lacks a private feeding space; cafés or Britomart offer alternatives.
- Limited Baby-Change Tables: Accessible restrooms may be busy at peak times; plan to walk to nearby stations if needed.
What is Downtown Terminal?
- A landmark ferry terminal erected in 1912, showcasing Edwardian Baroque architecture in robust sandstone with a prominent clocktower façade
- A central transport hub on Auckland’s waterfront, facilitating multiple ferry routes across the Waitematā Harbour
- A harmonious fusion of historic waterfront building and contemporary pier extension, accentuated by iron railings and kerosene-style lamps
What is so special about Downtown Terminal for with baby?
- Flat, pram-friendly wharf stroll with harbour views.
- Short, free-for-baby ferry ride to Devonport.
- Grab quick coffee and snacks at nearby cafés.
- Access to baby-change facilities inside and at Britomart.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Short rides and a wharf stroll cover main sights without tiring the baby.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Downtown Terminal
Stroll Queens Wharf Promenade:
Walk the flat, smooth wharf path with harbour views.
Tip: Bring a sunhat in summer and windbreaker in winter to stay comfortable.
Take the Devonport Ferry:
Enjoy a 12-minute ferry ride across Waitematā Harbour.
Tip: Use the AT HOP card for day-trip return fares at NZD 23 per adult. The baby travels free.
Grab Takeaway Coffee or Snack:
Pick up drinks and small bites at cafés opposite the terminal.
Tip: Order ahead via app to save time and secure a seat indoors for feeding.
Use Baby-Change Facilities:
Change nappies at accessible restrooms inside the terminal.
Tip: If no table is free, walk 2 minutes to Britomart Station for public baby-change rooms.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Downtown Terminal
- Travel Off-Peak: Board ferries outside rush hours for more seating and quieter restrooms.
- Use AT HOP Card: Load funds in advance to get lower ferry fares and skip ticket queues.
- Reserve Stroller Hire: Book pram rental at the Luggage Hotel beforehand if you prefer not to bring your own.
Reviews of Downtown Terminal
Leilani Osmundson
Great experience riding the ferry! The Fullers360 staff member that sold us our tickets was very nice and helpful, and getting to the terminal was pretty easy overall. The ferry itself was quick, clean and efficient.
Chris Caldwell
A modern terminal offering services to multiple ferry operators serving a number of destinations in and around Auckland. Conveniently located near the Britomart transport hub and close to the Auckland Central Business district. Access is good and digital signage is comprehensive.
N V
Only giving 3 stars cos of all the roadworks. Nonetheless, they have done a good job putting up signages to guide you to the right pier. People manning the info desks are also friendly. Ferries are roughly on time. Take a ride to get amazing views of the Auckland skyline!
Nick Carrick
The Auckland Wharf Building is an iconic building that has been in existence for over a hundred years and is a retro Victorian building. He was originally a wharf association and now it has become a hotel. Overlooking the entire Auckland pier on the dock building, it is very beautiful. It is also the background of the red photo taken at the Auckland Pier. It is definitely worth a look.
Arceline Ang
Always bustling with tourist leaving or coming to Auckland. Lined up with restaurants and cafes... Most importantly, thank you Auckland Council for installing public drinking fountains in strategic places round the terminal 😄
When is the best time to visit Downtown Terminal (Auckland, New Zealand)?
In summer, use sunscreen and hat. In winter, dress in layers and carry a raincoat. Check wind forecasts year-round.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Ferry Day-Trip Return for 2 adults | NZD 46 |
| Coffee and snack | NZD 15 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 61 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Downtown Terminal
Address: Quay Street, Auckland Central, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
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