Poster, 'For Your Holidays'

The Publicity and Advertising Branch of the N.Z. Railways Department designed many commercial posters, including travel posters advertising its own services. Posters such as this example were distributed throughout New Zealand and would have been displayed on station notice boards.

The Branch was established in Wellington in 1915 to coordinate the display of advertising on railway property, and from 1920 produced original advertising artwork for its own purposes and for external clients. The Railways Department was determined to display advertising of the 'highest standards of commercial artistry and skill in the preparation of designs'.

This poster exemplifies this aim with its many screenprinted colours and bold dramatic design. The sleek lines of the engine and elegant line of smoke trailing behind as it forges through the dramatic wilderness, conjure up a modern and effortless travel experience through glorious nature.