The block of historic buildings fronting Quay St but also part of the Britomart Precinct was completed by the end of the first decade of the last century, reflecting economic growth and a flurry of building in the city.
The Wharf Police Station opened in 1904 as city offices and store
for the Colonial Sugar Refining Co, which spent £5000 ($10,000) on the building. The company wanted to minimise its costs and wanted only a building that was "adequate for New Zealand".
In the 1960s it became a police station, and a posting there was not popular - the beat was notorious for prostitutes and drunks. It is to become a bar and restaurant.
The Newdick Building next door, the 1906 headquarters for Whangarei kauri gum merchant Samuel Rawnsley, got its name from the Newdick brothers, cake manufacturers and produce merchants, who occupied the premises from 1937 until the 1950s. It was also owned by businessman Frank Winstone as a bulk store.
The Quay Building was built in 1906 for the New Zealand Laundry Company. During World War II radio instruments for the forces were produced there.
The Union Fish Co Building was built in 1906 for W.A. Ryan and Co, importers of engines and marine machinery and one of the earliest importers and assemblers of motor vehicles.
In 1974 Harro's Hofbrauhaus traditional Bavarian restaurant opened complete with a brass band to entertain diners with German drinking songs. In 1981 the building became the Union Fish Co restaurant.
Restaurant, cafe and bar facilities are predicted for the restored building.
The Northern Steamship Co building opened in 1899.
Some of the building, renovated in the 1990s, will be upgraded and may be offered to selected organisations in return for their participation in nearby artistic events.
Room will also be devoted to retail.
