The idea of Wellington

Abstract

The objective of this research report is to apply the analytical framework in Joseph Rykwert's book, 'The Idea of a Town', to interpret the conception, founding and form of Wellington. In line with Rykwert's approach, this paper focuses on the physical representation of the ideals held by the Wellington community and culture which founded and inhabited it. In his book Rykwert 'reads' the Roman town by studying the influences underlying the founding of Roman towns. He traces how these founding influences were embedded in Rome's architectural and urban forms, and how they are part of a pattern of rituals, myths and ideas which served to create a secure home for the citizens of Rome making them feel part of their city, and placing that city firmly in a knowable universe. The report adopts Rykwert's analytical framework and applies it to the New Zealand city of Wellington. As such it is not intended to be a comprehensive and strictly factual description of the founding and evolution of Wellington. Rather, based on the research of relevant literature and maps, as described in chapter one of the report, it is an interpretation of 'the idea of Wellington' held by its founders and citizens, and an analysis of how these ideas were embedded in the city's physical form.