The rear of old commercial buildings fronting Lambton Quay. The Cenotaph war memorial can be seen under construction on the far left. These buildings were all compulsorily acquired by the City Council and demolished to allow the entrance of Bowen Street to be re-routed from north of the memorial to south of the memorial. This allowed a 'square' to be created north of the cenotaph for ceremonial parades etc. The photograph was likely taken to document the area before demolition commenced. 

See also 50010-82