Wellington is a treasure trove of Art Deco architecture. Between the two world wars, the city experienced a building boom that transformed its skyline. New styles emerged, inspired by the past but looking to the future.

The 1920s was a golden age for Wellington architecture, thanks to a thriving economy. The 1930s brought depression, but also government intervention. The government built large public buildings such as Wellington Railway Station and the National Museum. These buildings were bigger, stronger and sleeker than before.

The most popular styles of the 1930s were Art Deco, Modern and Stripped Classicism. Art Deco was a style that celebrated geometry and simplicity. It used ornamentation to create a sense of modernity. Moderne was a style that took Art Deco to the next level. It used curves and smooth surfaces to mimic the shapes of ships, trains and cars. Stripped Classicism was a style that used classical features and motifs, but with less decoration. It gave an impression of grandeur and authority.

Join us on this tour and admire the beauty and variety of Wellington's Art Deco buildings.

This is based on/includes data from Wellington City Council.