AON Centre

Gazing up at the imposing black granite facade, have you ever wondered about the secrets hidden within the AON Centre? This Wellington landmark, formerly known as the BNZ Centre and later the State Insurance building, stands as a testament to a turbulent past and a symbol of the city’s resilience. The AON Centre’s story began in the late 1960s when architects Stephenson & Turner conceived its bold design, inspired by modernist towers like Mies Van de Rohe’s creations. In 1973, construction commenced on what was intended to be New Zealand’s tallest building. However, a fierce trade dispute erupted, halting progress for six agonizing years. The boilermakers union claimed exclusive rights to weld the steel frame, a dispute that reflected the labor tensions of the era. This battle brought construction to a standstill, quadrupling the project’s cost to a staggering $93 million. The government eventually deregistered the union, but the delay left an indelible mark on the AON Centre’s history. Finally completed in 1984, the AON Centre briefly claimed the title of New Zealand’s tallest, only to be surpassed two years later by Auckland’s BNZ Tower. The AON Centre’s striking design, a stark black form against Wellington’s skyline, has drawn both admiration and criticism. Architect Sir Ian Athfield famously dubbed it “Darth Vader’s pencil box.” Yet, its steel frame allows the building to flex up to 300mm in strong winds, a testament to its engineering. This flexibility, however, has been known to cause motion sickness for those working within. Today, the AON Centre stands proud, home to businesses and a vibrant hub of activity. The lower levels once housed a bustling food court, now transformed into the Willis Lane entertainment venue, complete with mini-golf, bowling, and lively bars. Look closely, and you might notice The Rock, a sculpture by Neil Dawson, once suspended above the open plaza and now relocated to the Willeston Street side. The AON Centre is more than just a building. It’s a symbol of Wellington’s tenacity, a reminder that even amidst disputes and setbacks, great things can rise.