Opened on 18 November 1991, it was one of the first purpose-built children's hospitals in New Zealand, and is the largest such facility in the country.

[2] The main Starship building opened on 18 November 1991 on the grounds of Auckland City Hospital.

The building has a central atrium lit by natural light and designed to a rainforest theme with a playground.

Each of its five levels is painted a different colour, with a symbolic meaning: aqua for the Pacific Ocean; orange for land; blue for sky; yellow for sunshine; and pink for health.

Having rooms curve around the atrium avoids long institutional corridors and reduces walking distance for staff and patients.