History and 2022 Restoration
History
The construction of 5 O’Connell Street, Auckland Central, formerly belonging to Alliance Insurance Co., was initiated by the Alliance Assurance Company Ltd. This English insurance company, established in 1824, commenced its operations in New Zealand in 1891. The inaugural ceremony of the new building took place on 11 June 1926 under the supervision of Robert Caughley, the New Zealand general manager.
According to an article in the Auckland Star, the building was deemed 'probably the most attractive structure of its size in the city.' It was designed in a 'true classic style,' featuring substantial Greek Ionic columns and a cornice resting on a sturdy pedestal, supporting a well-proportioned parapet above. Grey marble adorned the entrance vestibule and the primary staircase, while the interior showcased decorative plasterwork and oak finishing.
Rough and Hooper served as the architects, and Fletcher Construction took charge as the contractors. Basil Hooper, better recognized for his Arts and Crafts residences in Dunedin and Auckland, was briefly in partnership with Rough and Hooper. The building contract, valued at £6300, was one of Auckland's largest in 1925.
The name "Administrator House" likely originated during the ownership period by the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators, an international organization now known as Governance New Zealand in New Zealand, from 1979 to 1988.
2022 Restoration
This 1925 two storey heritage building has been beautifully restored & fully earthquake strengthened, preserving its historic significance in the heart of Auckland for generations to come.
Two original stone medallions on the exterior depict a castle on a rock, emblematic of Alliance Assurance's strength and security symbolism. The neo-Classical style of the building and the materials used also represented the strength and solidity of Alliance Assurance: the imposing front elevation has Ionic columns with decorative volutes, a cornice and parapet. The building was constructed of Ōamaru stone, with grey Nelson marble at the base. An internal marble staircase, exquisite wall and ceiling mouldings, and bespoke French doors on the ground floor, providing ample natural light.
Over the years and through various owners, Administrator House has undergone transformations, evolving from its original role as an insurance building to serving as a nightclub and later a beauty spa.
In 2022, the proud new owners Andrew and Charlotte, enlisted the expertise of Haydn and Rollett to rejuvenate Administrator House. The restoration efforts not only focused on reinforcing the foundation for earthquake safety but also brought a contemporary flair to the interior, seamlessly blending modern elements with the building's historic charm. In 2023 the restoration was awarded the New Zealand Architecture Award - Heritage Category.
Now, Administrator House proudly stands as a private gallery, offering its space for events, and its upstairs section serves as dedicated private office space for Coulthard Barnes affiliations.
