Key to swing by Bay for some Art Deco fun

John Key was appropriately togged up when he last attended the big 'what-ho' weekend four years ago. Photo / File

The Tremains Art Deco Weekend is set to receive prime ministerial support with John Key to hit town and maybe enjoy a cocktail or two as the sparkling "what-ho" weekend gets under way on February 20.

Mr Key last called by in 2011 when, appropriately dressed in striped blazer and boater hat, he declared the event up-and-running from the stage of the War Memorial Conference Centre on the opening night.

He also visited several events during the 2010 weekend.

Art Deco Trust events manager Peter Mooney said Mr Key would not be officially opening this year's celebratory weekend but would stop by to say hello for about an hour on the Friday to show his support for it.

"It will be a pleasure to have him here even if it is only for a short time."

For the Art Deco Trust team, the countdown was now well and truly under way.

A meeting of all event managers was held last night and the volunteer crews would assemble tonight to work through extensive work programmes.

"I'll be seeing the Ahuriri Rotary people on Thursday - they do all the street barrier work," Mr Mooney said.

Trust staff would also be meeting Maori Wardens and the City of Napier Army Cadet Corps over the coming days, as both groups were essential parts of the team.

About 40 cadets become involved during the weekend and the unit treats it like a full-on exercise - with the cadets setting up camp for the weekend at the Coote Rd drill hall.

Up to 20 Maori Wardens would be involved, as well as large teams of local trust volunteers and about 40 "stripe" volunteers - those who wear easily identifiable uniforms and who assist people with everything from directions to finding transport.

"It is a huge event and a lot of work - but we're well under way."

Ticket sales for the weekend's events and attractions had been strong, Mr Mooney said.