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Napier struck by massive 7.9 earthquake 3rd February 1931

Missionaries, Traders and Whalers began moving into the province, then in the 1850’s farmers and Hotel keepers arrived. Napier took its name from Sir Charles Napier, the hero of the battle of Meeanee in the Indian Province of Scinde. Many of Napier's streets have names associated with the colonial era relating to the British Indian empire, Famous Literary figures and artists. Early development was in the Port area of Ahuriri and Napier Hill. These areas were almost completely surrounded by water at this time.  

On the February 3rd 1931 at 10.47 am an earthquake of 7.9 on the Richter scale devastated Central Napier.  The resulting fires destroyed many of the remaining buildings. 4,000 hectares of surrounding seabed was raised as much as 2.5 metres to become dry land today being used as both industrial and residential properties.

In the two years following the quake, the city was completely rebuilt, thus making Napier unique with its Art Deco, Spanish Mission and unique Maori Art forms. Napier represents the most complete and significant group of Art Deco buildings in the world, those known as the "Art Deco Capital of the world". Napier's location beside the Pacific Ocean, the Mediterranean climate, help make Napier a top wine growing region, producing world class wines, thus a preferred destination sort after by so many worldwide. 

A consideration while in Napier should be to partake in a guided tour of the inner City. The Art Deco Trust have daily walks at 10.00am and 2.00pm to discover and feel the History, the Art Deco, the spirit of Napier. Napier is a unique City, a must to visit. The 1 hour morning tours cost $16.00 and afternoon tours at 2 hours, $21.00 (younger children free) - prices subject to change... please confirm.

Take a local sightseeing tour with Hawkes Bay Scenic Tours Ltd and find out more about the unique History this City has to offer. Tour start at $50.00 for 2 1/2 Hours.

Looking for great value Bed and Breakfast accommodation in Napier New Zealand?  Explore our Web pages links below. Stay with us and learn the local Napier and Hawke's Bay history, the earthquake, the changes, the Art Deco, the New Napier as it is today. 

 

Contact Details:      

John & Margaret                                      Phone:...................+64 6 844-5693

Nest Haven Bed and Breakfast                 Mob: ..................+64 0274 979-231                    

2 Neeve Place                                         Email:..... relax@nesthaven.co.nz

Taradale                                                                                                         

Napier                                                    Tariff and Booking Form

New Zealand    4112