Historic Queen’s Hall in Auckland Hits the Market for $3.7 Million

A landmark property in Auckland, the historic Queen’s Hall located in Freemans Bay, is officially on the market, offering prospective buyers a unique opportunity to acquire a piece of local history. After three decades of ownership, Anna Comrie-Thomson, a retired nurse and medical photographer, has decided to sell the building she cherishes deeply. The auction is scheduled for February 18, with an estimated sale price ranging between $3.31 million and $3.71 million.

Constructed around 1905 by the Thorne family, the Edwardian structure initially served as a concert venue before transforming into a private residence. The hall was inaugurated by then Auckland mayor Arthur Myers and quickly became a vibrant hub for community events, accommodating up to 170 attendees for concerts, lectures, and social gatherings.

Reflecting on her decision to sell, Comrie-Thomson expressed her profound attachment to the property, stating, “It fills me with the most enormous amount of sadness.” Despite her emotional connection, she believes it is time to downsize and move to a smaller home nearby.

When Comrie-Thomson first encountered the Queen’s Hall in 1996, soon after losing her husband, she felt an immediate affection for the space. At that time, she was accompanied by her two children, aged 12 and 16. The building’s condition was daunting; she described it as “completely and utterly appalling.” Nevertheless, she committed to extensive renovations, addressing critical issues ranging from plumbing and drainage to electrical systems.

“Absolutely no one thought I was doing the right thing,” she recalled, but her love for the building drove her to restore it diligently. “There’s nothing I didn’t need to do to it… I just felt that I was in a place that I just adored,” she added, highlighting how the property became a source of comfort during a challenging time in her life.

The property is now being marketed by Blair Haddow of Bayleys Real Estate Ponsonby. He describes the Queen’s Hall as “a truly rare offering in the heart of Freemans Bay,” emphasizing its “soaring ceilings and generous proportions.” The layout is conducive to various activities, whether entertaining guests or enjoying quiet moments.

The location further enhances its appeal, with easy access to cafés, dining options, parks, and the waterfront, alongside convenient connections to the Central Business District and Ponsonby. Haddow notes that this house blends heritage, lifestyle, and convenience, making it a desirable option for potential buyers.

Comrie-Thomson anticipates that the next owner will be someone who shares her passion for the property. “I hope they will look at it and think: ‘Oh my god, I love this place and I will adapt to live in it’,” she stated.

As the auction date approaches, the Queen’s Hall stands as a testament to both history and personal journey, poised to find a new caretaker who can appreciate its unique character and legacy.