World Heritage Art Deco Report

The World Heritage Art Deco Report is now public and there will be no surprises in the conclusion that Art Deco itself is not of outstanding universal value. Therefore at this time, to the Napier Community the World Heritage process will not be progressed.

Napier’s Art Deco heritage is, as stated in the report, ‘first and foremost of outstanding value to all New Zealanders’. Mayor Barbara Arnott said today, “Our buildings are now protected, preserved and promoted”. However, it is simply not just about buildings any more. Lonely Planet and the BBC recently declared Napier’s GEON Art Deco Weekend as one of the world’s best festivals, and that has been recognized by the thousands of visitors who come here every February for our most famous of dress up parties. “Our community knows the value of Art Deco to our city, recognize this heritage, celebrate it and share it with the world. This is what it’s all about, and World Heritage Status would not change that”.

Art Deco General Manager, Sally Jackson said yesterday. Art Deco General Manager, Sally Jackson said yesterday. “Each year the Art Deco experience in Napier gets bigger and better for locals and visitors. The total Art Deco package that is offered in Napier cannot be replicated anywhere else and we treasure this.”

Following a survey by the NZ Tourism Research Institute, the General Manager of Hawke’s Bay Tourism, Annie Dundas, is quoted saying, “Art Deco and architecture is the most distinctive feature for Hawke’s Bay.”

The localized concentration of Art Deco buildings is what distinguishes Napier from the rest of the Art Deco world. The accessibility in Napier of the architecture, the style, the festivals and the fun is what makes a difference around the world.