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Auckland City 1960
This stunning aerial perspective, captured by the legendary Whites Aviation, offers a nostalgic look at Auckland City as it stood at the dawn of the 1960s.
Read moreAuckland City. Whites Aviation Ltd: Photographs. Ref: WA-52974. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand. /records/32973508
This expansive Auckland City aerial perspective, captured by the legendary Whites Aviation in 1960, offers a nostalgic look at the Waitematā Harbour and Auckland CBD as they stood at the dawn of the 60s. Shot from high over the Auckland Harbour, this scenic and epic view documents a "pre-skyscraper" era where the landscape was defined by its heritage architecture rather than glass towers. From the tranquil water of the ocean and surrounding seas, the city climbs gently toward the horizon, where the volcanic silhouette of Mt Eden and the grand Auckland Museum sitting atop the Auckland Domain anchor the distant skyline. The waterfront serves as the heart of this historical photograph, showcasing the Auckland docks and Auckland piers in their original, functional state. Nestled among the Auckland Harbour edge, you can clearly see Shed 10 and the various industrial sheds that once buzzed with maritime trade. The boats, ships, and various vessels dotting the water highlight a working port town long before the modern transformation of the Viaduct. At the foot of Queen Street, The Ferry Building stands as the undisputed centerpiece of the quay, its Edwardian Baroque detail appearing tall and proud without the massive commercial blocks that loom behind it today. Moving into the city grid, several iconic Auckland city buildings serve as architectural anchors in this aerial photography. The Chief Post Office (CPO) and the stately Dilworth Building mark the entrance to the city's main thoroughfare, while the St Patrick’s Cathedral Spire and The Town Hall Clock Tower rise above the low-slung masonry of the mid-century CBD. This black and white photography captures a rare sense of space and clarity, making it a standout piece of New Zealand photography for those who appreciate the history and vintage charm of the "Queen City." Whether you are looking for historic prints, vintage prints, or retro prints, this Whites Aviation masterpiece is a sophisticated work of art for any home. It makes for stunning interior art and serves as a thoughtful choice for gifts. It is an ideal find for those seeking gifts for mum, gifts for dad, gifts for grandad, or gifts for grandma, as well as unique gifts for boyfriend or gifts for girlfriend who have a love for Auckland’s storied past.

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SIZE GUIDES
M
L
XL
Framed Print
62.4cm x 45cm
87.1cm x 62.4cm
124cm x 89cm
Frame (width x depth)
2cm x 3cm
2cm x 3cm
3cm x 2cm
Print only
59.4cm x 42cm (A2)
84.1cm x 59.4cm (A1)
118.9cm x 84.1cm (A0)
M
L
XL
XL DUO
Framed Print
45cm x 62.4cm
62.4cm x 87.1cm
89cm x 124cm
2x XL
Frame (width x depth)
2cm x 3cm
2cm x 3cm
3cm x 2cm
3cm x 2cm
Print only
42cm x 59.4cm(A2)
59.4cm x 84.1cm (A1)
84.1cm x 118.9cm (A0)
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