'New Zealand Odyssey', published in 1989 by Heinemann, was authored by me, Don Donovan (who did the text and illustrations) and Euan Sarginson, who did the photography and design. In this series of blog posts, I will publish some of my drawings.
Pahiatua is a pleasant, unassuming village on the highway through the northern end of the Wairarapa district. It came as something of a surprise, then, to spot this superb piece of art deco architecture. There's absolutely no doubt that it was built in 1934, sometime after the Napier earthquake that was the spur for an art deco renaissance of major proportions. Perhaps the proud owner of the dental chambers took his cue from Napier?
Whoever he (or she) was; this classic was an inspiration, and Pahiatua is richer for it. I only hope they know what a gem they've got in that main street.
© DON DONOVAN
donovan@ihug.co.nz
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