Government Buildings Historic Reserve
Introduction
One of Wellington's most interesting historic landmarks, the Government Buildings were formally reopened in January 1996. There is public access to the grounds, which feature examples of New Zealand's flora, including many rare species.
Features
Government Buildings
Inside the Government Buildings, visitors may view historical displays and interpretation rooms on the ground floor, and the Cabinet room on the first floor. The rest of the building is leased to the Victoria University School of Law.
The largest wooden building in the Southern Hemisphere
With imposing facades, sweeping staircases, cast iron fireplaces and kauri clad interiors, the Government Buildings are among the finest examples of New Zealand’s architectural heritage. Like many colonial buildings of last century, they were built to resemble an Italian stone palace in an attempt to convey strength and stability in the expanding empire. It is the second largest wooden building in the world, and the imaginative use of kauri, one of New Zealand’s premier native timbers, could never be replicated in any present day building because our remaining public kauri forests are under permanent protection.
Location
Government Buildings, Lambton Quay, Wellington.
Getting there
Government Buildings are at the north end of Lambton Quay, opposite the Cenotaph below the Beehive.
Plan and prepare