The (organ) pipes are calling

Near the top of Queen St for more than a century, the Auckland Town Hall has been an elegant and familiar part of the background to city life, but few Aucklanders have had a proper look at the building.

Now you can, if you’re quick, on one of the hour-long Auckland Town Hall Tours being offered around the performance part of the town hall, public and backstage.

Beginning by the grand staircase, you’ll learn about the competition to design it, the winner receiving a staggering £400, equating to $72,000 today. It was a Melbourne father and son partnership who succeeded with their Edwardian baroque design, which took just two years to build, opening on December

14, 1911.

The tour takes you into the Concert Chamber and Great Hall, to view them from all angles, and have features pointed out that audiences usually miss. You’ll learn why capacity has reduced over the years (hint: bigger audience members), and be shocked to discover that – despite Kate Sheppard being honoured with a bust above the staircase – women’s toilets were not included in the original construction.

Why go?

Because why wouldn’t you want to stand where The Beatles and The

Rolling Stones have stood? And the Queen, and Eleanor Roosevelt, and Bill Clinton? There have been many performers from around the world and, of course, thousands of graduands walking on stage to receive their precious pieces of paper.

Plus, you get to go under the stage to view the secret, functional side of performances. Finally, enjoy a hot drink and a sweet treat.

Insider tip

Don’t be shy if you know your way around a keyboard: you’ll be offered the opportunity to play the huge German-built Orgelbau Klais organ, which has 4000 pipes.

If that’s your real passion, look out for the Organ Trust’s four annual free organ concerts, followed by free tours that will get you up close to the organ, and give you another chance to play it.

On the way/nearby

You’re close to the Art Gallery Toi o Ta¯maki, which is always worth a visit as it’s free and has beautifully displayed exhibitions. Resuming on January 18, you can attend Friday evening drawing sessions there too, which are also free, with materials supplied.

Albert Park is outside, with scattered artworks to admire. And, of course, Queen St and High St are right there, for shopping and refreshment.

How much?

Tickets cost $35 each, recommended 14 years and over. Be aware there are a lot of stairs to negotiate, some narrow and steep. Tours are limited to 18 people.

Best time to go

Soon. The tours are popular and selling out. There are places left on January 17 and 24, although more tours may be listed to meet demand. Check aucklandlive.co.nz.