NAPIER REBUILT

Evening Star, Issue 21316, 21 January 1933, Page 12

NAPIER REBUILT

A MODEL CITY £883,808 SPENT ON REBUILDING THE TOWN RESTORATION OF MUNICIPAL SERVICES GOST £145,000 [Per United Press Association.] NAPIER, January 21,

Napier, which was wrecked by the earthquake on February 3, 1931, has been rebuilt, and to-day stands a model city, the completion of which is being celebrated with a week’s carnival, which commenced this morning. There are many visitors from other parts. The carnival, which is under Vice-Regal patronage, comprises a comprehensive programme, of which some of the principal events ar ean aero pageant at which Sir Charles Kingsford Smith will attend, and to be held this afternoon, and the Napier Park race meeting next Saturday. Other ■ events include athletic sports, golf, and bowling tourneys, band contest, and processions. A total of £883,806 has- been spent on building since the earthquake, of which over £850,000 has been for new permanent structures, in addition to over £145,000 spent in restoring the municipal services. In the reconstruction of the town care has been taken to ensure harmony of design, while an important feature is the complete absence of verandah supports and telegraph poles, power and telegraph lines being carried underground.' Another excellent move has been an extensive street widening programme, which the authorities decided upon when the bare conditions of the streets gave the necessary opportunity, as a result of which the new business area has been greatly enhanced. On the Marine Parade an attractive improvement scheme is in progress, the work already completed including the laying of lawns, gardens, and pathways, while a huge auditorium has been commenced. A large sum of money has also been expended in restoring public services, and a number of works necessary to the growth of the new town. The municipal authorities have spent over £140,000 in re-establishing the water supply, sewerage, storm water dranage, and roads and streets, while a further £IB,OOO has been set aside for street widening, repairs to public buildings, and general improvement work. Lord and Lady Bledisloe arrived last night to participate in the celebrations; and His Excellency officially opened the carnival this morning. Their' Excellencies will attend numerous functions connected with the carnival during their visit to Napier, including the air pageant on the ’drome constructed since the earthquake on land raised by that upheaval. The weather is beautiful and appears likely to continue.