Union Fish

Built in 1904 – 1906 for W.A Ryan & Company, importers of oil engines and marine machinery. Possibly designed by R.M. Watt architect who also designed the Ponsonby Fire Station.

Business had just begun to function in the building when in the early morning of Christmas Day 1906 a fire destroyed the interior and contents causing around £25,000 worth of damage. The new larger building was reopened in 1908.

Part of the building was taken over by United Repairing Co. and in later years the Northern Steamship Co. used the space for a workshop.

In 1974 the building was opened as Harro Haufbrauhaus a traditional Bavarian restaurant serving beer, German food and a band playing traditional German drinking songs.

In 1981 the concept changed and the nautical theme of Union Fish Co. took over.
 

Restoration:

Cooper and Company has restored the existing heritage character of the Union Fish building.
Works included:

• Brickwork on the Quay and Tyler St elevations was restored and replaced.
• Original openings on each façade were reinstated with appropriate timber joinery.
• A new roof which reflects the original roof was reinstated.
• 3 new parapets were reinstated. Originally the building was 2 bays longer than exists today and therefore only 3 of the 4 parapets were reinstated.
• A new roof light was constructed within the new roof to provide more light into the top floor.