A popular decorative and architectural style of the 1920's and 1930's characterised by geometric designs, bold outline and colours, zig zag forms and the use of new materials such as glass and plastic. Derived from the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Decoratifs Industires et Modernes held in Paris in 1925.
(Source: dictionary.com)

After a massive earthquake measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale and an ensuing fire destroyed a large part of Napier on the 3rd of February 1931, it was decided after many meetings and discussions by committees and architects that perhaps a uniform style of rebuilding should take place and looked to such areas as Santa Barbara in America for inspiration. And so began the journey of the rebuilding of Napier and the city that today is fondly known as 'the Art Deco capital of the world'. Many styles of architecture can be found including 'Art Deco', 'Spanish Mission' and 'Stripped Classical' in a wonderfully preserved state.