In 1980, 19 musicians of the collapsed Symphonia of Auckland founded a new cooperatively run orchestra as an incorporated society, the Auckland Philharmonia Society, Inc. Local businessman Olly Newland undertook the financial risk of holding the remaining assets of the Symphonia, and organised several public rallies to garner support.

A charitable trust was established to manage the orchestra's capital asset fund, allowing the society to concentrate on the artistic and operational functions.

Other conductors who have worked as artistic advisors to the Auckland Philharmonia include Edvard Tchivzhel, Vladimir Verbitsky and Enrique Diemecke.

[2] In February 2015, the Auckland Philharmonia announced the appointment of Giordano Bellincampi as its next music director, effective in 2016, with an initial contract of 3 years.

[3][4] In February 2024, the orchestra announced the most recent extension of Bellincampi's contract as music director, through the end of 2027.