Napier enjoys one of the highest concentrations of Art Deco architecture in the world. The city was virtually destroyed during the Napier earthquake on 3 February 1931, which measured 7.9 on the Richter scale. The quake demolished or damaged nearly every building in the two townships of Napier and Hastings, killing 256 people.
Napier was rebuilt in the predominant styles of the era - art deco, Spanish mission and stripped classical – and today, the art deco architecture holds special appeal for visitors.
Every February, Napier hosts an Art Deco Weekend, featuring a vintage car cruise, jazz bands, a bi-plane swoop, balls, dinners, exhibitions and entertainment with a 1930s theme. Characteristic art deco motifs include geometric shapes, zigzags, lightning flashes and rising suns.
Some of the city's finest art deco buildings are located on Emerson Street, including the Criterion Hotel, ASB Bank and Provincial Hotel. Other highlights include the Daily Telegraph Building and the Municipal Theatre on Tennyson Street, and on Marine Parade, the Masonic Motel and the neon-lit art deco clock tower.
Walks
A series of self-guided art deco walk brochures are available at the Visitors Centre at 100 Marine Parade, or alternatively, take a guided walk:
Art Deco Trust
Join the 20,000 plus people who take a guided Art Deco Walk each year. Your accredited guide will bring Napier's fascinating architecture to life for you as you take an easy stroll through the compact Art Deco Quarter in the vibrant city centre. Walks are held twice daily year-round (except Christmas Day), plus evening walks from December through to March.
Napier i-Site Visitor Centre
Daily walks from 10am during the summer.
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