Old Choral Hall reopens at the University of Auckland

Old Choral Hall, a Category 1 heritage building at the Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland’s City Campus, has reopened following an extensive refurbishment led by Architectus in collaboration with Archifact. Built in 1872 by the Auckland Choral Society, the hall served as Auckland’s main public performance space before the Town Hall opened in 1911. Old Choral Hall has played an important role in the University’s history. Over time it has hosted concerts, ceremonial gatherings, university graduations, teaching, science laboratories, lectures, and administrative functions.

As part of the project, the original neo-classical portico, removed after the 1931 Napier earthquake, has been reinstated, restoring the building’s heritage façade and architectural presence on Symonds Street.  Inside, the building has been reconfigured to accommodate student and staff workspaces, two 100-seat lecture theatres, and flexible spaces for learning and events.

In a fitting tribute to its history, the Auckland Choral Society performed at the reopening ceremony, welcoming staff, students, and alumni back to this iconic University landmark.