New Zealand Centennial Exhibition Image Descriptions

Image Description

Souvenir cover (home page)

This image, from the cover of the official catalogue, bears the title 'New Zealand Centennial Exhibition 1939-40'. It depicts the exhibition's tall art deco tower and yellow spotlight beams rising into the night sky.

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Image Description

Aerial view of the Exhibition grounds (Introduction page)

An aerial view of the Exhibition grounds and buildings. The left of the photo shows the avenue of flags at the Kingsford Smith Street entrance. These lead into a central cross formed by the main passage. This is bounded by a solid block of exhibition buildings featuring a layered roof and art deco-style arches and gateways in the walls. The centennial tower is prominent to the right of the picture, directly opposite the entrance gates. Waves crashing at Lyall Bay can be seen at the top left corner. Suburban houses can be seen in the top right hand corner. In the right foreground we can just see the Crazy House and Cyclone roller coaster of Playland.

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Dodgems racing (Introduction page)

This image shows people enjoying the dodgems, while spectators watch from outside. Most of the dodgem racers are soldiers in uniform.

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Pioneer woman (Introduction page)

This white stone statue of a pioneer woman depicts her sitting with two daughters: an infant on her knee and her older daughter standing beside her. She is represented as a nurturing mother, but her unsmiling expression indicates that she is also serious.

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Pioneer man (Introduction page)

The seated pioneer man has a rugged face and windswept hair. Muscles are easily visible on his bare torso, to indicate how hard-working he is. Beside him stands his son, who holds an axe. He is a younger version of his heroic father.

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Image Description

Model of a port (Introduction page)

This model includes eight ships, some berthed at wharves and others sailing. The water is represented by a mirror, which reflects the scene.

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Waitomo Caves model (Introduction page)

This model shows the limestone stalactites and stalagmites which form in natural caves.

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Aladdin Iron advertisement (Introduction page)

The iron this advertises is depicted as shiny and elegant. The text of the advertisement says: 'My name is Aladdin and I want to be your slave. I am streamlined and beautiful...economical, efficient, and easy to use. I am the Aladdin Kerosene Safety Iron. Fully guaranteed for two years and freely serviced for 12 months, the Aladdin Kerosene Safety Iron is made in New Zealand by the makers of the world-famous Aladdin Kerosene Mantle Lamp. For a demonstration of all Aladdin products call at Block 18, Building "E", or call, phone (51-859) or write- Aladdin Industries PTY. Limited, 85 Willis Street, Wellington, C.2.'

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Image Description

The Governor General speaking at launch (Introduction page)

Governor General Galway is speaking into a microphone, opening the exhibition. Two men, also standing on the platform, are listening to him speak. A roller coaster car can be glimpsed behind them, indicating that they are on the roller coaster.

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Image Description

Roller coaster under construction (Playland page)

This shows the undulating roller coaster track. The debris in the foreground indicates that it is still under construction. Behind it are hills and a cloudy sky.

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Laughing Sailor (Playland page)

This shows the laughing sailor, a large mechanical puppet dressed in a black sailor's uniform. He sits over the main door to playland.

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Image Description

Coronation Scot train (Playland page)

This image captures the miniature locomotive in action. It is speeding around the curving track, and a white blur near its front is a small dog trying to outrun it. Behind a wooden fence are houses on a hill overlooking the exhibition grounds.

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