Seismic Strengthening

Information and updates about the Waiapu Cathedral earthquake strengthening programme

Seismic Strengthening updates

IMPORTANT NOTE

Waiapu Cathedral has been assessed as a strong building (reinforced concrete) in the Kestrel report but a severe, locally-generated earthquake would cause significant damage.  If there’s an earthquake while you are in the cathedral, please take shelter and move to a side aisle. 

DECEMBER 2023

We have updated the Q&A information so that parishioners and the public can stay informed on the issues facing the Cathedral.  Q&A Dec 23 PDF – can be downloaded and printed.

NOVEMBER 2023

Q & A – following the parish meetings, the attached Q&As have been prepared  so that parishioners and the public can understand the issues facing the Cathedral.  Q&A PDF – can be downloaded and printed.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Waiapu Cathedral has been assessed as a strong building (reinforced concrete) in the Kestrel report but a severe, locally-generated earthquake would cause significant damage.  

31 OCTOBER 2023

Interview with Dean Di Woods in NZME Hawke’s Bay Today 31 October 2023 – Cathedral demolition fears aired 
Dean says people of Napier need to know about church building’s earthquake strengthening challenges. 

OCTOBER 2023

Parishioners have the opportunity to provide feedback on the seismic report of the cathedral building at a discussion meeting on Saturday 28 October at 3.00pm.  

SEPTEMBER 2023

Parishioners were given a presentation on the latest seismic risk assessment information for the Cathedral on Sunday 17 September by the Seismic Committee.  

You can read information on these links – 

A follow up meeting will be held on Saturday 28 October at 10am in the Cathedral so parishioners can bring any questions or provide feedback, and have a further discussion.

DECEMBER 2022

The latest in a series of Detailed Seismic Assessment (DSA) reports has been provided to Napier City Council and work can now get underway to investigate any risks to the Cathedral remaining open and the costs for bringing the Cathedral up to building standard.

You can review the WSP seismic assessment report of December 2021 here.  

The media release issued by the Diocese on 13 December 2022 is here.