Visiting Napier is like stepping back in time. The city’s central business district is home to dozens of original buildings and shopfronts that exemplify the key styles of Napier Art Deco Historic architecture.

Napier was devastated by an earthquake in 1931, which resulted in the death of over 250 residents. From this tragedy, a new vision for the city emerged.

Napier Art Deco Historic architecture

As the city was rebuilt after the earthquake, the buildings in the central business district were designed in the popular architectural style of the time, known as Moderne, later termed Art Deco. Thanks to the efforts of the Art Deco Trust, many of these buildings have been preserved and restored.

When walking along Emerson and Tennyson streets, be sure to look up—you’ll surely discover the beauty, elegance, colour, and motifs that define Art Deco. Some of these motifs are inspired by the indigenous Māori culture of the region.

The art deco capital of the world

Queen Elizabeth II stayed at the Masonic Hotel in Napier, and Prince Edward VIII, who later abdicated the throne, spent three months in the city.

Art Nouveau architecture usually draws on inspiration from nature and more organic forms, where as Art Deco architecture has simpler geometries. Many of these buildings have Art Nouveau inspired elements though, as seen on some of the motifs and detailing. It’s what makes it so special.

Where is Napier?

Napier is a coastal city in the Hawke’s Bay region of New Zealand, known for its well-preserved Art Deco architecture. It was rebuilt in the 1930s after a devastating earthquake and is now a popular tourist destination with a unique concentration of Art Deco buildings

Does Napier have airport?

Located at Napier, this small but busy regional airport operates domestic flights to six cities. It offers a good range of passenger facilities. Air New Zealand(opens in new window) has frequent daily services from Napier to Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.