“GATEWAY TO N.Z.”

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 163, 30 September 1927, Page 13

“GATEWAY TO N.Z.”

AUCKLAND’S NEW STATION BEAUTY AND UTILITY “It is recognised that a railway station must not only fulfil its functions as an operating unit, but it must also minister to the aesthetic sense and civic pride of the people whom It serves.” above principles underlying the construction of a modern railway station are stressed by Mr. W. R. Davidson, M.lnst.C.E., referring in the October issue of the “New Zealand Railways Magazine,” to the plans and specifications of the proposed new railway station at Auckland. Ornate embellishment and costly materials, he states, have no bearing on efficiency of service, and make no appreciable return upon the capital expended. They also lead to heavier maintenance charges. Hence a wise discretion has had to he displayed in the architectural design of the Auckland station building, due regard balng had for tho fact, that It is virtually the gateway to New Zealand, connecting as it does the railway system, with the Imperial mail route that links us with the great sister Dominions of Canada, and Australia. The site, Mr.. Davidson points out. gives full effect to the monumental nature of the building, which combines the main essentials of beauty and utility, spaciousness and propinquity, substance and economy. IMPRESSIVE FEATURES The main fEia.ture of the exterior is a grouping of three massive arches. These are repeated within the great booking hall, which, with its masterly treatment in design and its lofty spaciousness, will be the most impressive feature of the interior. Marble and cast bronze will be used extensively in the detailed embellishment throughout the building. A broad concourse gives access to all the adjuncts of a modern station, including dining room, refreshment buffet, waiting rooms, barber’s shop, and (pressing rooms, lavatories, post and telegraph offices, ambulance, bookstall and fruit stall, etc. Here, the night traveller will also find facilities for cleansing, rest and refreshment in preparation for his day of business or pleasure in the city.