Art Deco 2025

From Windows to Wardrobes – Napier CBD Businesses Lead the Art Deco Festivities!

Napier’s retailers have once again embraced the city’s Art Deco heritage, transforming their storefronts into stunning displays for the 7th Annual Napier CBD Art Deco Window Display Competition, proudly hosted by Napier City Business Inc (NCBI).

With 21 local businesses participating, competition was fierce, leading to a first-place tie for the first time in the event’s history. The winners of the 2025 Art Deco Window Display Competition are:

1st Equal: Shampoo Plus & Spex Eyewear

3rd Place: JJ’s Crafts

Highly Commended: Magazine Designer Clothing

Judges – Deputy Mayor Annette Brosnan, Art Deco Trust Heritage Manager Jeremy Smith, local business owner Kathryn McGarvey (NosyHQ), and NCBI General Manager Pip Thompson praised the exceptional creativity, attention to detail, and the effort businesses put into sourcing authentic Art Deco era props.

The standard this year was outstanding, making it incredibly difficult to choose a winner, the judging panel noted. “Many retailers went the extra mile, incorporating period-accurate elements and storytelling into their displays. The tie for first place reflects just how impressive the top entries were.”

The celebrations didn’t stop at window displays – local businesses also brought the Art Deco spirit to life through fashion in the 2025 Best Dressed CBD Art Deco Team Competition. Staff across Napier’s CBD dressed in their finest 1920s and 1930s-inspired outfits, adding to the atmosphere. The winners of this year’s Best Dressed CBD Team are:

1st Place: Hair at Henderson

2nd Place: MTG Visitor Team

3rd Place: Hohepa Creative Works

The winning displays, along with all entries, will remain up for the duration of the Napier Art Deco Festival, offering locals and visitors a chance to experience the city’s unique character through the lens of its talented retailers.

NCBI General Manager Pip Thompson encouraged the community to get out and explore the displays:
”This competition is a fantastic way to celebrate Napier’s Art Deco legacy while engaging and supporting our local businesses. We encourage everyone to take a stroll through town and appreciate the effort these retailers have put into celebrating our city’s heritage.”

Congratulations to the 2025 winners and all participating retailers for making Napier’s CBD a showcase of creativity and heritage!