The history of Jervois Quay

The street which stretches along our city’s waterfront was named after Sir William Jervois, who was Governor from 1883 to 1889.  

“The area was reclaimed in 1889 so we assume the naming was likely to be a parting ‘gift’ from the city to Jervois when his term came to an end,” says Gabor. 

“The correct pronunciation is ‘Jar-Vis’ and Sir William had facial hair that any hipster would be proud to own.”

In the early 1900s, Jervois Quay was the main tram line which serviced many routes across the Wellington region.

And the notorious Municipal Fish Market operated on Jervois Quay throughout the 1910s.

In 1964, the trams stopped operating, bringing cars to our streets. 

From 1985 to 1996, the Wellington Nissan Mobil 500 streetcar racetrack went along Jervois Quay, welcoming race car drivers and supporters from all over the world to our fantastic little city.

Lambton Quay was the original shoreline, followed by Customhouse Quay in 1886, and then Jervois Quay from 1889.

Our Wellington Historic Map Viewer depicts the sea as it used to be, as well as the old sea wall which is now where Frank Kitts Park sits. To see the original plans, visit our map viewer and search ‘Jervois Quay’. 

Today, we have Frank Kitts Park, TSB Arena and many restaurants, bars and offices which now sit along the water on Queens Wharf.