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Art deco in NapierWhen much of Napier’s centre wasdestroyed by an earthquake in 1931, art decowas at the height of its popularity. With itspast destroyed, the town chose to look tothe future and adopted this fashionable,modern style. The simplicity of the designsalso offered a cheap, economical way ofimproving the aesthetics of the buildingsduring the depression, and provided a saferalternative to the more elaborateornamentation which had come down withthe original buildings. Art deco itselfrepresents the optimism of the Twenties andthe idealism and escapism of the Thirties.Typical motifs include geometric shapes,sunbursts, fountains, and symbols of speedClassic car on show during Art Deco WeekendAdvertisement for Napier’s annual Art Deco Festivaland power. Napier’s art deco is uniqueas it also incorporates elements of Maori art andsymbolism. Although much of the architecturecan be appreciated by simply strolling along themain streets, the daily walking tours operated bythe Art Deco Trust are highly recommended asthey reveal corners of the town which wouldotherwise be missed, and allow access intobuildings where the interior is as interesting asthe façade.Art deco facade, NapierNapier really comes to life during the ArtDeco Weekend, held in mid-February, whenmany of the local townspeople dress inperiod costume, bring out their vintage carsand hold events throughout the town.Accommodation fills up quickly though, soenthusiasts wishing to join in need to bookwell in advance.Parade in NapierCobden Garden Homestay, NapierCobden Garden Homestay,NapierPerched above the town centre, the excellentvalue Cobden Garden Homestay is situated inthe heart of a delightful residential suburb ofcolonial-era houses. Three guest rooms, locatedon the ground and first floor are traditionallyfurnished. A homemade breakfast of local produceis served in the breakfast room or on the verandaand your hosts welcome you to join them in theevening for some wine tasting before you ventureout to sample the city’s fine restaurants.McHardy Lodge, NapierSituated on the north side of the historic Bluff Hillin Napier, McHardy Lodge offers panoramic viewsof Hawke's Bay. This faithfully restored 1890’s villahas luxuriously appointed guest rooms, each withgreat views; it is tucked away from the hubbub ofthe city centre but only minutes away from a widerange of restaurants on the waterfront. Fromclaw-footed baths to antique furnishings everyroom has been carefully decorated in keeping withthe age of the house.The Crown Hotel, near NapierHouses on Marine Parade, NapierThe Crown Hotel,near NapierOverlooking the waterfront in the village ofAhuriri, near Napier, the Crown Hotel has 43stylish guest rooms and suites. Choose from theelegant heritage suites, located in the original 1932Crown Hotel building, modern contemporaryrooms overlooking the ocean or one of the twoor three bedroom luxury apartments. Thearchitectural elements of these two parts of thehotel combine to create a unique blend of historyand plenty of style.www.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l North Island 27