The Tragedy of 1931.

In February, 1931, this town suffered a sad set-back. Earthquake, followed by devastating fire, had reduced much of the business portion of Napier to desolate wreck. The many premises built of wood which were sandwiched between the more modern buildings had fed the fire which followed the upheaval, and this, in the abscence of water, had spread, until some portions of the town were destroyed.

Water and gas mains were smashed and electric wires were either down or burnt.

All the life of the community seemed to be irretrievably stopped. Many who came to visit and help the sufferers at this time prophesied that Napier was finished and could never rise again after such a stupendous cataclysm.

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Napier citizens, however, are made of stern stuff. They were not prepared to admit for a single day that they were beaten. Recovering from the shock in record time, they instantly commenced the organisation that eventually led to the rehabilitation of the town.