The 1931 Hawke’s Bay Earthquake is important to the story of our city, and at this civic service we remember those who died and  those who helped restore our community at a civic service at the Cathedral.

The service will be streamed on the Cathedral’s Facebook page.

The public is invited to attend the special service starting at midday on 3 February marking 93 years since the devastating earthquake that shook Hawke’s Bay in 1931.

The 2023 cyclone will also be remembered.  The way people helped each other in the aftermath of last year’s cyclone has echoes of the way the community came together in 1931, says Kirsten Wise, Mayor of Napier.

“The resilience of Napier people in 1931, looking after each other then moving on to rebuild, has been seen again in the actions of so many over the past year. The service is an opportunity to share some moments of reflection. The impacts on our city and people’s lives continue to be felt today.”

Mayor Wise will speak at the service, along with Bishop Andrew Hedge and Cathedral Dean Di Woods. The Hawke’s Bay Soul Choir will perform two items.

Commander Fiona Jameson and Lieutenant Commander Paul Eady, representing the Royal NZ Navy, will ring the Veronica Bell, once for survivors, once for those not able to attend, and finally, for those who have passed.

Traffic Note: The street around the cathedral is now a one-way system with access via Cathedral Lane.  However there is improved parking.  There is a drop-off area immediately outside the main cathedral doors if needed.