The (former) Women’s Rest, located in Memorial Square, were designed in 1924 by Napier architect James Augustus ‘Louis’ Hay in the ‘Prairie Style’ and heavily influenced by American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The ‘Rest’ served as a rest stop for women, mothers, and children at a time when there were no public toilets or facilities for women in the town. The facility was conceived as a utilitarian war memorial and a companion to the city’s Cenotaph. It was formally opened to the public on Anzac Day, 25 April 1926, at which time the reserve was renamed ‘Memorial Square’.

In the wake of the devastating 1931 Hawke’s Bay earthquake, speedy repairs allowed the Women’s Rest to serve as the heart of Tin Town, effectively New Zealand’s first shopping mall. Over the years, the building has hosted various groups, including the Merchant Navy Club, a ballet studio, and the Citizens’ Advice Bureau, before its closure in 2013 due to seismic concerns.

Art Deco Trust, a non-profit charity dedicated to preserving Napier’s heritage, in partnership with Napier City Council led the restoration of this building with generous support from donors and supporters; with the goal of restoring the integrity of Louis Hay’s original Art Deco-era design and allowing the building to once again serve as Community Rooms for hire and the home of the Art Deco Trust.

The (former) Women’s Rest was opened 27 August 2025.

Two halls are available for hire:

Small Hall – available in theatre style (seating for 40pax) or workshop style (tables and chairs for 12-14pax)

Main Hall – available in theatre style (seating for 70pax)

A commercial kitchen is also available.

The (former) Women’s Rest is an unlicenced venue – a ‘special licence’ is required if alcohol will be served at an event, visit: information about Licences, Napier City Council