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The New Zealand Railways Magazine, Volume 5, Issue 8 (February 1, 1931)

[section]

Hawke's Bay, and particularly Napier and Hastings, came into conspicuous prominence on Tuesday, 3rd February, 1931, when an earthquake of unusual severity suddenly caused serious loss of life and destruction.

With remarkable promptitude advice was received that the railway track was so badly damaged as to render it unsafe for passenger trains. The vigilance of the Maintenance staff in this connection was characteristic of its alertness in maintaining an absolute standard of safety. As the result of untiring efforts on the part of the engineers and staff it was possible to restore the running of trains to and from Napier approximately 48 hours after the upheaval and this achievement rendered a great service to the stricken area, as it was then possible to hasten the evacuation of refugees and injured.

The running of trains so soon after the calamity was a great factor in restoring confidence in the district.

To all concerned in this excellent work my sincere appreciation is extended.

Minister of Railways.