Beehive

This government office stands as the executive wing of Parliament Buildings in the capital, rising through ten circular floors beneath a copper roof. The structure houses ministerial offices, conference rooms and reception spaces used for official functions.

Sir Basil Spence from Scotland designed this modernist office in 1964, with building work finishing in stages between 1969 and 1981. The construction replaced earlier government premises and introduced a new architectural approach to the capital.

Its nickname comes from the shape that resembles a traditional skep, now part of how New Zealanders picture their seat of power. Visitors walking through find artworks by local creators throughout the interior, including a large wall piece by John Drawbridge visible during public tours.

Guided tours take visitors through parliamentary chambers and ministerial areas, offering a look at how government works in New Zealand. These tours cover several levels and last around an hour, with security checks required at entry.

The entry foyer features marble floors, stainless steel mesh on the walls and a translucent glass ceiling that lets daylight filter through in shifting patterns. These materials were chosen to signal openness and modernity in the seat of government.

Location: Wellington Region

Location: Wellington City

Location: Wellington

Inception: 1981

Architects: Basil Spence

Architectural style: modern architecture

Floors above the ground: 10

Part of: New Zealand Parliament Buildings

Website: https://beehive.govt.nz

GPS coordinates: -41.27833,174.77667

Latest update: December 6, 2025 11:00