History of the Glockenspiel

Situated in the heart of the Taranaki region, Stratford is a quirky town rich in history and did you know it holds a secret. As you travel down the town’s main street of Broadway make sure to look up and you will see the pride of the town: the Stratford Glockenspiel!

Completed in 1999 to commemorate 100 years since the formation of the original Stratford Borough in 1898

- William Shakespeare, Richard II

This revered unique clock tower is one of many Shakespeare-themed features in the town named after the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

Shakespeare’s most famous starcrossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet, emerge for the balcony scene, reaffirming their vows of love, four times a day.

The dialogue has recently been updated, incorporating the voices of Stratford locals. There has also been a Te Reo dialogue recorded, which can be played at any time.

The glockenspiel performs for approximately 5 minutes, after the hour chimes at 10am, 1pm, 3pm and 7pm.

The Stratford Glockenspiel is the first of its kind in New Zealand. Local engineers designed the Glockespiel after rejecting overseas designs as not being feasible to Taranaki conditions. The Stratford District Council thanks Geoff and Robyn Grierson of Stratford Engineering and Lyal Barrett for their excellent detailed work. Well known for his amazing Tawhiti Museum, Nigel Ogle of Hawera was commissioned to design and manufacture the figures. There are six in total, three of Romeo and three of Juliet. Nigel’s ability to make lifelike figures has gained an international reputation.

What is a Glockenspiel?

Glockenspiel literally means ‘Playing Clock’. Glock are found around the world and are quite common, particularly in Europe. Most Glockenspiels depict events in history or mythology but usually display smaller figurines than the Stratford version, and rarely have spoken dialogue. The Stratford Glockenspiel is based on the Romeo and Juliet story and entertains viewers with period music and narrative enactment from the famous love story. The choice of theme is related to the links the town has with Stratford-Upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

This link is reflected in the town’s street names which are all drawn from the works of Shakespeare.

- William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet

History of the Stratford Clock Tower

The original clock tower adorned the old Stratford Post Office located approximately 100 metres south on the main street. Considered an earthquake risk, the tower was demolished in the early 60’s and a new tower was constructed. Fortunately, the old clock mechanism and the original 1924 clock faces were stored and the current clock tower (constructed in 1998) incorporated the original faces. The old mechanism is stored inside the clock tower. The original bells are housed in the Centennial Bell Tower, which is located in Miranda Street beside the District Council offices.

The top level is accessible but there is little space, with the old Clock Tower and staircase taking up most of the room. The Glockenspiel frame surrounds itself around the old Clock Tower, as a support base.

From the top window there is a great view of the mountain and also either side of Broadway.

Note: Thank you to Melanie McBain from the Stratford District Council for providing this information.