79th Hawke's Bay Earthquake Commemorations

One minute of violent shaking that changed the face of Hawke’s Bay will be remembered with seven heavenly voices on Wednesday.

The 79th Hawke’s Bay Earthquake commemoration will be held at the Hastings Clock Tower at 10.20am, on February 3.

International singing group, The Seven Irish Tenors, have offered to sing in the town centre to recognize this significant piece of local history.

They will sing two of the songs they will perform that night at their Hawke’s Bay Opera House show.

Hastings Mayor, Lawrence Yule, who will open the service, says it is an honour to have a performance from The Seven Tenors at the event.

“The 1931 earthquake demolished much of the Hastings town centre. It will be eerie to stand and listen to those great voices, while we remember what the town centre must have looked in the minutes, hours and days after the quake,” Mayor Yule says.

Reverend Graeme Pilgrim of St Matthews Church will offer prayers, followed by other speakers, including local author and historian, Michael Fowler.

It is hoped a number of earthquake survivors will also be in attendance.

In recognition of the era, which saw Hastings and Napier rebuilt in Spanish Mission and Art Deco-style, steam engines and vintage cars will roll into town.

If the weather is wet the service will be transferred to St Matthews Church, on King Street.