National War Memorial

The National War Memorial is a war memorial in Mount Cook with Art Deco design that features a carillon tower containing 74 bells and a Hall of Memories space. The complex is currently undergoing structural upgrades to improve earthquake resilience while maintaining its historic character.

The memorial was established in 1932 after the government decided in 1919 to create a national monument honoring New Zealanders who had died in conflicts. It grew from that initial vision into a significant Art Deco landmark reflecting the country's commitment to remembrance.

The memorial serves as a place where visitors pause to remember New Zealanders who served in various conflicts, and the names displayed here form a physical record of their sacrifice. People come here to reflect and pay their respects in a quiet, thoughtful setting.

The memorial complex sits on a hillside at Mount Cook and is accessible by foot from central Wellington with a moderate walk uphill. Plan to spend quiet time exploring the interior spaces and reading the names displayed to fully appreciate the place.

The carillon ranks among the world's largest by total weight and was expanded from the original 49 bells to 74 over time. This growth reflects how the memorial continued to expand its role in honoring more people as the decades passed.

Location: Wellington City

Inception: April 25, 1932

Architects: Gummer and Ford

Architectural style: Art Deco

Part of: Pukeahu National War Memorial Park

GPS coordinates: -41.29900,174.77714

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:58