Friday, December 7, 2007

Government House ... #198

Government House in Wellington is a large, two-storied house, built mostly of wood, with attics, a grand staircase, a ballroom, dozens of other large and small rooms, very long corridors and a flag tower. It is the official residence of the Governor-General, but it also contains offices, and is used frequently for receptions of many kinds.

Each year, there are usually over 15,000 visitors to the House, invited to one or more of the many functions in the House. These in-House events range from investitures and diplomatic receptions, to conferences, concerts, exhibitions and community morning teas. In addition, members of the Royal Family, Heads of State and other distinguished guests often stay at the House when they are visiting New Zealand.


The House was designed in the office of the Government Architect, John Campbell, the designer of Parliament Buildings, principally by his assistant, Claude Paton. It was built between 1908 and 1910.
Government House has eleven bedrooms and two large suites (there are 27 bedrooms and 19 bathrooms in total, including the staff quarters), as well as a ballroom, sitting rooms, service rooms and a wing of offices. The House is approximately 4,200 m2 (45,000 sq. ft.).

1 comment:

Rumi Shivaz said...

Great photo Jeremy ... are casual visitors allowed to see the house or is it invite only ? My wife's Dad is here for a holiday and he will love to see this place.