Ever wondered about the towering brick chimney still standing proudly at Victoria Park Market? That chimney isn’t just a quirky architectural feature. It’s a silent testament to Auckland’s past. Victoria Park Market wasn’t always a vibrant hub of shops and cafes. It began its life in 1905 as a waste depot and incinerator. Think of it: a bustling market in the heart of Auckland built on the site of a former rubbish dump!
The Auckland City Council built the incinerator to combat the threat of bubonic plague. Rats carrying the disease were a serious concern. They thrived in the rubbish heaps scattered throughout the city. So the council decided to build a purpose-built incinerator and this is where the Victoria Park Market’s history begins.
Construction involved creating a series of brick buildings. A blacksmith’s shop was built. A carpenter’s workshop. Even stables for the 94 horses that pulled the city’s rubbish carts were constructed. These horses had their own double-story stables. Can you imagine the daily routine involved in moving all that rubbish? The ramp used by the horses still exists today! It’s now part of the Celebrity Walk of Fame.
The incinerator itself. The massive 38-meter-tall chimney released the heat from the burning rubbish. It was quite a sight. This incredible chimney also powered a generator. But the power generated wasn’t enough to meet the city’s demands. It was eventually shut down when a new power station opened.
The site continued as a rubbish collection depot even after the incinerator was closed. But the buildings eventually faced demolition. However a public campaign saved them. This led to the transformation of the former incinerator complex into the vibrant market we see today. Victoria Park Market was officially opened in 1984.
The market underwent extensive refurbishment in 2013. This work cost approximately $20 million. It ensured that the historic buildings were earthquake-proofed. Today Victoria Park Market is a beautiful blend of heritage architecture and modern amenities. It is a popular destination. It is known for its unique blend of shops restaurants and its very own Celebrity Walk of Fame featuring the handprints and footprints of famous New Zealanders. So next time you visit Victoria Park Market remember its intriguing past and appreciate the amazing transformation.