Developed in the 1990s, the Steamer Wharf was initially considered controversial because of its waterfront aspect. However the design, allowing unprecedented public access across the waterfront, has become a landmark of Queenstown.
The site has 16 tenancies covering hospitality, retail and offices. The Steamer Wharf is also home to the famous TSS Earnslaw, a 1912 Edwardian vintage twin screw steamer.
The original development group included John Darby, John Martin, Peter Hanson, and the late Howard Paterson. Until 2019 it was also the headquarters for Darby Partners.