The buildings were completed in 1876 on land reclaimed from Wellington Harbour to house the young New Zealand Government and its public service.

[2][failed verification] The building was commissioned in the early 1870s by the Fox Ministry, partially in anticipation of the abolition of the provincial governments.

As an important symbol of nationhood, the building was constructed to resemble an Italian stone palace to help convey its strength and stability in the expanding empire.

If the building had been constructed out of stone as planned, it may not have survived subsequent earthquakes, as it is situated near a major fault line.

Verandahs, late Victorian and Edwardian water radiators, the original clock and coat of arms, a water-powered hydraulic lift, and the impressive staircases were all restored or preserved.

All structural framing is Tasmanian hardwood (now augmented with pinus radiata), while weatherboards, flooring and finishing timbers are kauri.

The civil service rapidly expanded beyond the capacity of the building, with the first department leaving shortly after it was opened.

[1] The government buildings were formally reopened in January 1996 after the Law Faculty of Victoria University signed a 50-year tenancy that year and became its new occupants.