The Skytower
A feature of the Post Modern world is the way in which the Temple and the Cathedral have been replaced with imposing edifices that symbolise the city and create a focus where local citizens and visitors to cities are drawn to marvel and and pray for their future and leave valuable offerings.Without doubt, the Skytower and its attached Casino fill this role in Auckland.
The striking needle-like tower smacks of hope, the future and perhaps the addiction seething in the casino in its basement. Whatever the emotions kindled in the viewer, it is indeed the one structure that makes images of Auckland recognisable.
Its 328 metres makes it 4 metres taller than the Eiffel Tower in Paris, but its highest public viewing platform at 220 metres does not compete with the Eiffel's platform at 279 metres or
the 488 metre platform on the Canton tower in Guangzhou China.
Glass panels in the floor of the Observation Deck do add a sense of excitement.
Auckland's Harbour Bridge traces its delicate thread across Waitemata Harbour.
Across Waitemata ( sparkling Water ) the tall tower marks the North Shore centre Takapuna.
Directly below the tallest office buildings rear up from city streets while beyond, the beachside suburb of Devonport points a finger at the resting volcano Mount Rangitoto.
The tallest of the city's many extinct volcanic cones - Mount Eden - was once topped with a major Maori fortified village or pah. Many of the tallest city buildings house Universities, Colleges and accommodation for thousands of tertiary students from home and abroad.
In the centre of the photograph, the largest city cinema centre is topped with a strange blue shield or surfboard shape and the classic Victorian City Hall is on the far side of the major public gathering place - Aotea Square. The street that cuts diagonally across the picture is the city's major artery - Queen Street.
Peeking from behind buildings is the clock tower of Auckland Art Gallery.
Sliding across the parkland of the Domain towards the Museum, the rather convincing UFO is only a reflection of a ceiling light in the Observation Deck.
The setting sun dazzles the visitors - Prabhash's wife Desika and Jeffrey Uncle.
A pensive Desika gazes out from the tower on her recently adopted city.
A drink on the Sky Lounge for the birthday couple - both born in January
The moon signals the close of the day and the city lights blink on for the night show.
Say Good night Dick.
John, I initially thought you had slipped in a photo of Singapore or something (the shot towards Mt Eden). But then realised that there were so many apartment blocks off/behind Upper Queen St (behind the single story traditional shop fronts) which you don't really see unless you walk down the back. Somewhat scary for an old Aucklander.
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