Art Deco Festival Napier - 2026 by NZME.

Welcome to Art Deco Festival Napier 2026!

On behalf of the Board of the Art Deco Trust, I am delighted to welcome you to our annual celebration of heritage, style and community

Each February, Napier transforms into a living stage that honours the

For more than four decades, the Trust has worked to preserve and protect Napier’s unique architectural heritage while sharing the stories behind the buildings, the people and the spirit that rebuilt our city

This festival would not be possible

Fromelegantsoiréesandtheatricalperformancestofree publicentertainmentacrossthecity,thefestivalbrings historytolifeinawayfewplacesintheworldcanmatch

resilience shown after the devastating 1931 earthquake and celebrates the creativity and optimism that followed. From elegant soirées and theatrical performances to free public entertainment across the city, the festival brings history to life in a way few places in the world can match.

The Art Deco Trust is proud to be the guardian of this remarkable legacy

without the dedication of our volunteers, members, sponsors, performers and partners, whose passion and generosity ensure the festival continues to thrive year after year

Whether you are attending your first festival or returning once again, we hope you enjoy everything Art Deco Festival Napier 2026 has to offer

Barbara Arnott

Board

Chair,

Art Deco Trust

Festival Feature Events

DAZZLINGDECOSOIRÉE

AssociatedEvent

Experienceahighlightofthefestivalat MissionEstate,withourDazzlingDecoSoirée Atrulymemorableeveningdesignedto transportyoutothedecadenceofthe1930’s Weproudlyopenourdoorstowelcomeyou withaglassofMissionFeteBrutCuveeand canapéswhileminglingonthelawn Seated inthegrandChapel,enjoyathree-course dinnerdesignedbyExecutiveChef,Ricky Littleton,complementedbyMissionEstate tablewines Dancethenightawaywitha 10-piecebandledbyJamesLoweorunwindin theloungewithabeautifullycraftedDecoinspiredcocktail Stepoutinyourfinery andjoinMissionEstateforaneveningof elegance,sophistication,andcelebration Sat21Feb,6.30pm–11.00pm MissionEstateWinery,198ChurchRoad, Poraiti,Napier

DECO AFTER DARK

Associated Event

Join us for a fabulous evening for Deco

After Dark! Experience the vibrant energy of modern tunes infused with a 1930s flair, brought to life by our talented 6-piece jazz band Enjoy casual seating on our festoon-lit lawn and alfresco terrace, with substantial canapes, roaming plates and sweet treats, all while sipping on a glass of Mission Fête Brut Cuvée, served on arrival

Don your best Art Deco attire, snap a polaroid and get ready to dance the night away to a vibrant blend of classic swing and contemporary rhythm! Cash bar available

Fri 20 Feb, 700pm – 11 00pm

Mission Estate Winery, 198 Church Road, Poraiti, Napier

SCOFFLAWS & BOOTLEGGERS SHINDIG

Art Deco Trust Event

BOOGIEWITHTHEBEATGIRLS

TheBeatGirlsdeliverahigh-energy celebrationofmusicthroughthedecades, fromearlygirlgroupsandswingtoMotown, Abba,the1980sandAmyWinehouse.Expect vintageglamour,sharpharmonies,sassy choreographyandapackeddancefloor.

SATURDAYNIGHTATTHESOUNDSHELL (FREE)

ArtDecoTrustEvent

Afestivalfavouritereturnswithanother unforgettablenightofliveentertainmenton MarineParade.Theeveningopenswithlively traditionaljazzbeforebuildingtoahighenergyheadlineperformancecelebrating theglamourandrhythmoftheDecoeraand beyond.Sat21Feb,6.00pm–11.00pm Featuring:

SHAKE-’EM-ON-DOWNERS

Wellington’sShake-’Em-On-Downersare asextetofhighlydanceablejazzmusicians performingenergeticoriginalsinspiredby NewOrleansandearlyswing.Knownfor fast-pacedrhythmandplayfulflair,their performancesaremadeformovement.

LADYLARISA

LadyLarisabringsvintagecabaretsparkle, powerhousevocalsandundeniablestage presence.Havingperformedinternationally andalongsideartistsincludingMichael Bublé,sheclosesthenightwithadazzlingset backedbyhertop-classDecoband.

GATSBYJAZZSERIES

ArtDecoTrustEvent

SponsoredbyMidlandsFundsManagement EnjoysmoothjazzinoneofNapier’smost beautifulArtDecointeriors.Chooseabuffet breakfastorelegantafternoonteawhile talentedsoloartistsperformliveonstageat theNapierMunicipalTheatre.Everyticket includestea,coffeeandyourbreakfastor afternoontea.Cashbaravailable. Fri20Feb,Breakfast:8.00am–10.00am AntonWuts(sax)andDavidSelfe(piano andbass)performasanintimatejazzduo, swingingeffortlesslythroughstandards,new worksandDecofavourites.

Fri20Feb,AfternoonTea:2.00pm–4.00pm

LadyLarisaperformsalongsideacclaimed composerandpianistBenFernandez, presentingtimelessswingandgolden-era charminanintimateduosetting.

Sat21Feb,Breakfast:8.00am–10.00am VocalistMargotPierardjoinsguitaristAleister JamesCampbellforasoulfulblendofjazz, improvisationandexpressivemusicianship shapedbydecadesofperformance.

Sat21Feb,AfternoonTea:2.00pm–4.00pm

ElectroSwiggetydeliversaplayful 1920s-inspiredexperienceofhotjazz,vintage mischiefandirresistiblerhythmledbyMiss TaraTrumpetandDJBigKDaddy. Sun22Feb,AfternoonTea:2.00pm–4.00pm PianistandvocalistNatalieMeszarosbrings awarm,versatileprogrammespanningjazz standards,classicalfavouritesandmodern influences.

NapierMunicipalTheatre,119Tennyson Street,Napier

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DECOCOLOURINGCOMPETITION

ArtDecoTrustEvent

SponsoredbyResene

Afunactivityforchildrentoenjoythroughout thefestivalweekend.PickupaDeco ColouringCompetitionposterfromtheArt DecoTrust,ortheFestivalInformationHub. Colouritin,thenreturnitforjudging.There aregreatprizesupforgrabsforyoungartists.

Thurs19–Sun22Feb

ArtDecoTrust,MemorialSquare,Napier FREE

SCAVENGERHUNT

ArtDecoTrustEvent

Havefamilyfuninthesunwhileexploring thestreetsoftheArtDecoCapitalof theWorld.Testyourknowledgeasyou uncoverclues,landmarksandhidden treasuresthroughoutNapier.Complete thehuntandreturnyoursheetforasweet reward.AvailablefromtheArtDecoTrust, ortheFestivalInformationHub.

Thurs19–Sun22Feb

ArtDecoTrust,MemorialSquare,Napier FREE

DECOSELFIE

ArtDecoTrustEvent

Thinkyoucancapturetheperfect Decomoment?PickupaDecoSelfie sheetfromtheArtDecoTrust,orthe FestivalInformationHub,andfollowthe instructionstoenter.Oneluckyparticipant withthebestanswersandmoststylish photographswillwinaspecialprize. Thurs19–Sun22Feb

ArtDecoTrust,MemorialSquare,Napier FREE

DECOBICYCLEBELLES’PICNICRIDE

IndependentEvent

Jointhisstylishcyclingadventurealong theRotaryPathwaytoWaitangiRegional Park.Enjoystarcompassstories,a picnicbrunchandsceniccoastalriding beforereturningtothecity.Decoattire encouragedandallbicycletypeswelcome. Goldcoindonationentry.

Fri20Feb,9.00am–12.00pm MeetbelowtheSoundshellonthe RotaryPathway,Napier GOLDCOINDONATION

THEDECOTIMES

ArtDecoTrustEvent

Stayuptodatewitheverything happeningacrossthefestival.TheDeco Timesisprinteddailyandincludes performanceschedules,lateprogramme additionsandspecialannouncements. Pickupyourfreecopyfromstreet hawkers,theArtDecoTrust,orthe FestivalInformationHub.

Fri20–Sun22Feb,Varioustimes EmersonStreet,NapierSoundshell, MarineParadeorArtDecoTrust FREE

LINDISFARNEJAZZBAND

ArtDecoTrustEvent

Theflagshipperformancegroupfrom LindisfarneCollegebringsyouthful energyandoutstandingmusicianshipto thefestival.Performingjazzstandards andstudent-composedworks,this dynamicensembleisalwaysacrowd favourite.

Fri20Feb,1.00pm–2.00pm NapierSoundshell,MarineParade,Napier FREE

MENINBLACK

ArtDecoTrustEvent

Ahigh-energyperformancegroup deliveringclassichitsfromthe1960s throughtothe1980s.Expecteverything fromjazzandbluestorock’n’roll favourites,performedwithflairand crowd-pleasingcharm.

Fri20Feb,3.15pm–5.15pm NapierSoundshell,MarineParade, Napier FREE

SKYBEAM

ArtDecoTrustEvent

Watchthenightskyilluminateas thehistoricWWIIsearchlightsweeps acrossMarineParade.Adramaticand atmosphericdisplaythataddsatouchof wartimenostalgiatothefestivalevenings. Fri20&Sat21Feb,9.00pm–11.00pm NapierForeshore(belowthe Soundshell),MarineParade,Napier FREE

EMERSON & HASTINGS STREET

SHOWCASE

Art Deco Trust Event

Soak up the energy of the festival as entertainment fills Emerson and Hastings Streets. Performance zones will feature live music and dance, while roving acts bring Deco spirit directly to the streets. Look out for Charlie Chaplin, Marilyn Monroe, the Keystone Cops, Bonnie and Clyde, puppeteer Stefan, Lindisfarne Jazz Band, children’s games and many more surprises. Full performer schedules are listed daily in The Deco Times Fri 20 – Sun 22 Feb, Various times Emerson Street & Hastings Street, Napier FREE

MORNING REVERIE

Art Deco Trust Event

A peaceful piano experience welcoming the day Undergrand presents an intimate sunrise performance on the white baby grand piano, creating a reflective space at first light Attendees are invited to quietly listen or gently participate as music and morning meet

Sat 21 Feb, 700am – 8 30am Napier Viewing Platform, Marine Parade, Napier FREE

RIDING FOR THE DISTINGUISHED

Associated Event

Support Riding for the Disabled in this family-friendly experience featuring beautifully dressed horses, tea and scones, lawn games and photo opportunities Horses are smaller in size for younger riders, and each one-hour session allows plenty of time to enjoy the festival

Sat 21 Feb, 900am, 10 00am & 11 00am

Riding for the Disabled 61 Sandy Road, Meeanee

THE LISTENING GARDEN

Art Deco Trust Event

As the day unfolds, the white baby grand piano moves beneath the pōhutukawa trees near the Floral Clock This calm, reflective sanctuary invites festival-goers to pause, listen and reconnect through music

Sat 21 Feb, 9.30am – 12.00pm

Upper Lawn, Marine Parade, Napier FREE

ENCORE DANCERS SHOWCASE

Art Deco Trust Event

The Encore Deco Dancers return with lively performances celebrating the music and movement of the Art Deco era Join them at the Soundshell or catch popup appearances throughout the Deco Quarter

Sat 21 Feb, 11 00am – 11 45am

3.45pm – 4.45pm Napier Soundshell, Marine Parade, Napier FREE

DECO BAY BRASS

Art Deco Trust Event

Relax to the sounds of Deco Bay Brass! With a sound that blends jazz, swing, and traditional brass band favourites, Deco Bay Brass has become a fixture in Hawke’s Bay’s music scene. The band brings together players young and old, united by a love of performance and community spirit

Sat 21 Feb, 12 45pm – 215pm Memorial Square, Napier FREE

DECO DOG PARADE

Art Deco Trust Event

Supported by Superior Pet Food Co

One of the festival’s most popular events returns. Dress yourself and your dog in Deco-inspired attire and parade along the Soundshell stage. Prizes awarded for the best dressed canine companions. Early online registration is recommended. Sun 22 Feb, 900am – 1000am Napier Soundshell, Marine Parade, Napier FREE

SOAPBOXDERBY

ArtDecoTrustEvent

SponsoredbyConroyRemovals

Afestivalfavouritewherechildrenandfamilies racehomemadecartsdownTennysonStreet Musteringandscrutineeringbeginsat900am, withracingfrom1000am Coordinatedbythe RotaryClubofAhuririSunrise Sun22Feb,10.00am–12.00pm TennysonStreet,Napier FREE

ASEAHORSENAMEDHERB

ArtDecoTrustEvent

Afriendlytriocomestogethertoprofessboth thepastandthepresentinhopestodivinethe future Drawinginspirationfromthesounds ofthenottoodistantpastwhenthedrumsof warcouldbeheardreverberatingthroughout theworldandevenfurtherbacktotimesof prohibition,expecttohearsongsoftriumph, despairandlove Comeexperiencethe tinklingoftheivoriesandvocals Sitbackand relaxordancethedayawaywithASeaHorse namedHerb Sun22Feb,11.00am–12.30pm MemorialSquare,Napier FREE

Walks, Talks, Tours

ARTDECOVINTAGECARTOURS

ArtDecoTrustEvent DiscoverNapierinstyleaboarda beautifullyrestored1930svintagecar.This one-hourtourtravelsthroughtheArt DecoQuarterandhistoricPortAhuriri, includingaphotostopattheiconic NationalTobaccoCompanybuilding. Bookingsessential. Includesacomplimentaryreturnpassto viewTheDayThatChangedtheBay. Wed18Feb,12.00pm&2.00pm Fri20Feb,9.00am,Sat21Feb,9.00am ArtDecoTrust,MemorialSquare,Napier

HOMESWITHHISTORYTOUR

ArtDecoTrustEvent Ahighlypopularfestival-exclusivecoach tourvisitingthreehistoricHawke’sBay homes.Travelthroughsceniccountryside withanArtDecoTrustguide,enjoy storiesofearlysettlementandheritage preservation,andsavourafinger-food lunch.Pleasewearsuitablewalkingshoes. Checkinatleast15minutespriorto departure. Fri20Feb,10.00am&12.00pm ArtDecoTrust, MemorialSquare,Napier

Luxuryday-to-nightdining,exquisite cocktails,Hawke’sBaywines,localbeers, withintheiconicArtDecoMasonicHotel

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DOWNSIZEINSTYLE

MEMORIALFLYINGDISPLAYS

ArtDecoTrustEvent

PoweredbyFalcon

WatchtheWarbirdsDisplayTeamperform breathtakingmanoeuvresacrossthe Hawke’sBaysky.You’llhearthembefore youseethemashistoricaircraftsoar aboveMarineParadeinamovingtribute toaviationheritage.

Fri20Feb,6.00pm,Sat21Feb,12.00pm Sun22Feb,2.00pm NapierSoundshell,EmersonStreetand MarineParade FREE

AERODECO

NapierAeroClubEvent

Relivethepioneerdaysofaviationwith astaticdisplayofvintageandWWII-era aircraft.Supportcrewwillbeonsiteto answerquestionsandsharestoriesbehind theseremarkablemachines.

Sat21Feb,10.00am–4.00pm Sun22Feb,10.00am–1.00pm BeaconsAerodrome(Hawke’sBayAirport) Entryviamainairportgate,SH2 Entry$15pervehicle

STEAMEXPLORER

AssociatedEvent

Travelinstylebehinda1904steamtraction engineonaguidedjourneythrough Ahuriri,theNationalTobaccoCompany buildingandtheFaradayMuseumof Technology.Durationapproximately2.5 hours.

Thurs19&Fri20Feb

8.30am,11.15am,2.00pm DepartsfromoutsideMTG MarineParade,Napier

TRACTIONTRUNDLE

ArtDecoTrustEvent

Climbaboardaworkingcoal-powered tractionengineforashortheritageride alongMarineParade.Funforthewhole familyandafestivalfavourite. Sat21&Sun22Feb

10.00am–12.00pm,2.00pm–4.00pm DepartsoppositetheSoundshell,Marine Parade KOHA

VINTAGECARPARADE

ArtDecoTrust&Hawke’sBayVintageCar ClubEvent

SponsoredbyProgressiveMeats FeaturingRolls-RoyceandBentleyasthe 2026highlightgroup,thisspectacularparade showcasesmorethan300pre-1949vehicles travellingfromCliveSquaretoMarineParade. Sat21Feb,12.30pm–2.00pm CliveSquaretoMarineParade FREETOVIEW

MARINEPARADESHOW&SHINE

ArtDecoTrustEvent

Followingtheparade,viewanextraordinary lineupofvintagevehiclesdisplayedalong MarineParade. Sat21Feb,1.00pm–4.00pm MarineParade,Napier FREE

VINTAGECARRIDES

Hawke’sBayVintageCarClubEvent Takeashortrideinaclassicvintagecar alongMarineParade.Donationssupportthe Hawke’sBayVintageCarClub. Sat21Feb,2.00pm–4.00pm Sun22Feb,1.00pm–3.00pm i-SITEVisitorCentre,behindtheSoundshell

THEBESTOFTHEBAY

Enjoyafreshlyroastedcoffee,pickupsomeingredientsforbrunchor meetfriendsforasweettreat,thereissomethingforeveryoneatthe Hawke’sBayFarmers’MarketandNapierUrbanFarmers’Market. JoinuseveryweekendinHastings&Napier,shoplocal andsupportourgrowers,producersandmakers!

Festival Fashion

Dressing up is at the heart of the Art Deco Festival experience Each February, Napier transforms into a living 1930s streetscape as thousands of visitors step back in time through costume.

You do not need a perfectly authentic outfit to take part Many festival-goers choose a simple nod to the era, such as a cloche hat, suspenders, pearls, wingtip shoes or a vintage-inspired hairstyle Others embrace full glamour, recreating

evening wear, military uniforms, workwear or sporting styles from the period

The spirit of the festival is about participation, creativity and fun. Whether subtle or spectacular, every outfit adds colour, character and atmosphere to the streets of the Art Deco Capital of the World

So dust off the feathers, polish the shoes and step out in style! because during Art Deco Festival weekend, everyone becomes part of the show

FASHION ON THE FORESHORE COMPETITION

One of the most iconic moments of Art Deco Festival weekend returns to the waterfront with the Fashion on the Foreshore Competition

Each year, thousands gather beside the sea to celebrate the elegance, creativity and flair of 1920s and 1930s style. From glamorous gowns and feathered headpieces to sharp tailoring, suspenders and straw boaters, this much-loved event

showcases the incredible effort festivalgoers put into bringing the Deco era to life.

Whether you are channeling Hollywood glamour, nautical chic or everyday street style of the period, the competition offers a chance to step onto the catwalk and be part of the spectacle. Categories are open to individuals, couples and groups, with prizes awarded for both authenticity and imagination.

Spectators are warmly encouraged to dress up too Even if you are not competing, the Fashion on the Foreshore is one of the best places to see the full sweep of Deco style on display Sat 21 Feb, 2 00pm – 3 00pm Napier Soundshell, Marine Parade, Napier FREE