We recently had the opportunity to add a number of new and re-preserved films to the online collection that feature scenes throughout Wellington city. Buildings come and go, but few other New Zealand cities have been so thoroughly redeveloped over the decades as our capital.
In celebration of Wellington Anniversary Day 2025, we've pulled together some highlight items and listed them below for your viewing pleasure.
Hero image: Still from The Maritime City (1930) - a film by the New Zealand Government Publicity Office.
Governor Lord Plunket and Prime Minister Sir Joseph Ward address a children’s rally at the Basin Reserve on the first anniversary of Dominion Day, Saturday 26 September 1908, captured by official government camera James McDonald.
A rare extensive compilation exploring the early days of Wellington.
The government cameraman rides atop a Lambton Quay tram in 1930, traversing the route of the pre-1855 shoreline.
A fascinating government sponsored tour of Wellington, accompanied by an early example of voice over film narration.
A compilation of news highlights from the 1940s, featuring VJ Day celebrations filmed by Wellington cameraman Victor Baird.
Amateur film-maker Rupert Parr documents his family's visit to Wellington Zoo.