Public Trust Building

About Public Trust Building

Public Trust Building is a things to do venue in Wellington Central, North Island.

Completed in 1908, it is the only surviving building made of true New Zealand granite from Tonga Bay in north-west Nelson. It is also believed to be New Zealand’s first steel-framed office building.

The building was constructed as the head office for the Public Trust, a government body formed around 1872 to administer New Zealanders’ estates. The Public Trust Building is an excellent example of Edwardian Baroque architecture.

The building’s façade features a grand entrance with a large archway, ornate carvings, and a clock tower. The building’s interior is equally impressive, with a grand marble staircase, stained glass windows, and intricate woodwork.

The building was opened by Prime Minister Sir Joseph Ward on June 9, 1909. The event included a lunchtime banquet, concert, and dance in the evening, and was attended by a number of Members of Parliament and Wellingtonians.

The cost of the building was estimated to be £40,000. The Public Trust occupied the building from 1909 to 1982, after which it moved to a building next door.

Today, the building is home to the Ministry for Culture and Heritage, which moved into the building in October 2015. The Public Trust Building is an important part of New Zealand’s history and a must-see for visitors to Wellington.

Its stunning architecture and rich history make it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Good to know

• Type: Things to Do
• Area: Wellington Central, North Island
• Phone: +64 4 499 4229
• Website: visit ↗

Frequently asked questions

Find more things to do in Wellington Central or browse the Wellington Central local guide.