Welcome to Napier Earthquake Tour
Napier Earthquake Walking Tour
Discover Napier at your own pace with our self-guided walking tour, available instantly on your phone. This audio tour combines local insights, GPS navigation, and cultural storytelling, making every step an adventure. Whether you're into architecture, history, or hidden gems, you’ll explore the city like a local—no tour guide required. Enjoy flexibility, freedom, and fun with the best walking tour in Napier. Download, walk, and wander anytime.
In 1931, an earthquake changed everything. This tour takes you through the aftermath and rebirth of Napier—from rubble to Art Deco royalty. Discover how tragedy transformed the city, uncover survivor stories, and explore the resilience that rebuilt a national treasure.
- 1. Napier's firefighters watched helplessly as fire engulfed the city, with the fire station destroyed, fire trucks buried under rubble and no water to fight the fire as the town’s underground water pipes had been shattered.
- 2. The quake raised Napier by seven feet, changing the course of rivers and bringing 2230 hectares of land to sea level. Many areas that had previously been underwater were reclaimed, such as the area where the airport is now situated.
- 3. The Market Reserve Building was the first major permanent building constructed after the Earthquake and is considered to be a symbol of the Renaissance of Napier.
- 4. Emergency medical services at Napier were quick to mobilise with the hospital quickly being evacuated to the local racecourse following contingency plans for its evacuation in the event of an earthquake that had been made as far back as 1925.
