The construction of 5 O’Connell Street, Auckland Central, formerly belonging to Alliance Insurance Co., was initiated by the Alliance Assurance Company Ltd. This English insurance company, established in 1824, commenced its operations in New Zealand in 1891. The inaugural ceremony of the new building took place on 11 June 1926 under the supervision of Robert Caughley, the New Zealand general manager.
According to an article in the Auckland Star, the building was deemed 'probably the most attractive structure of its size in the city.' It was designed in a 'true classic style,' featuring substantial Greek Ionic columns and a cornice resting on a sturdy pedestal, supporting a well-proportioned parapet above. Grey marble adorned the entrance vestibule and the primary staircase, while the interior showcased decorative plasterwork and oak finishing.
Rough and Hooper served as the architects, and Fletcher Construction took charge as the contractors. Basil Hooper, better recognized for his Arts and Crafts residences in Dunedin and Auckland, was briefly in partnership with Rough and Hooper. The building contract, valued at £6300, was one of Auckland's largest in 1925.
The name "Administrator House" likely originated during the ownership period by the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators, an international organization now known as Governance New Zealand in New Zealand, from 1979 to 1988.
