Sunday, February 13, 2011

Napier Art Deco Gem








Napier is a sea side town on the east side of the North Island. Also famous for being one of the premier wine making districts of NZ - Hawkes Bay. 

In 1931 Napier suffered a devastating earthquake which destroyed the town. The rebuilding of the town resulted in an art deco jewel which has been maintained and promoted by subsequent town councils. The National Tobacco Company building is probably the best example of art deco style . The floral frieze is part of the main entrance. This is a wonderful town to spend a few hours strolling around. Sea side, gardens and wonderful builidings. 

The statue is of a Maori legend. Pania is a maori women who was drawn to the sirens of the sea. She was unable to return to the land because of her attraction to the gods of the sea,  

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