Awards reward Art Deco saviours

Freeman White was ecstatic to receive a merit award for his artwork on the Clive Square bus terminal. Photo / Paul Taylor

Art Deco architecture was last night celebrated for enhancing the character of Napier.

The Napier City awards recognised restoration in a range of heritage buildings and landmarks in a special ceremony at the MTG Hawke's Bay.

Local artist Freeman White said his pride in the city inspired him to paint an Art Deco-themed mural at the Clive Square bus terminal. Mr White won a merit award for his contributions.

"I'm inspired by the city of Napier," he said.

He felt quality art work elevated a city to more than just co-habitation.

"Thank god for Art Deco, he said."

The Napier city Post Office received the Supreme Award for commitment to the preservation of a landmark.

Karen Hart said she and her husband, who co-owns the building, were delighted by the unexpected accolade. The building's "huge presence" had helped them stand out.

"The buildings in this city are a point of difference for Napier," Mrs Hart said.

Divine Things was also recognised for refurbishment and restoration enhancing the Napier's Art Deco character.

The awards were co-ordinated by the Art Deco Trust and Napier City Business Inc.

Head Judge and Art Deco Trust Heritage Committee member Ann Galloway said what made the Post Office stand out was its connection to the city.

"It is a substantial building and it has a strong place in the city," she said.

The previously earthquake-prone building had been in danger of being lost: "Its future was in doubt and the owners have saved it from death.

"They have done a fantastic job restrengthening and given it a new lease of life."

Ms Galloway said these buildings were a link to the past and embodied the unique flavour of Napier.

Art Deco Trust general manager Sally Jackson reported that the large number of awards was exceptional and emphasised the huge amount of preservation and restoration work occurring within the Art Deco Quarter in Napier.

"The awards were an excellent way to showcase positive changes within the city and emphasised good examples of business signage and quality renovations to heritage buildings," she said.

Registered architect Sol Atkinson, from Pibb Aitkinson architects, said that Napier's Art Deco architecture added value to the city as a tourist attraction.

He said that a number of buildings were under threat from earthquake vulnerability, however.

"We should be restoring these historic buildings as much as possible to maintain the essence of the city of Napier," Mr Atkinson said.

Art Deco Trust award winners

Art Deco Trust Supreme Award: Napier Post Office; Divine Things.

Napier City Business Inc People's Choice Award: Max Fashions; runner-up The Sanctuary;
commendation Merric