NAPIER RE-BUILT

Wairarapa Daily Times, 21 January 1933, Page 5

NAPIER RE-BUILT

A MODEL CITY. CARNIVAL IN PROGRESS. NAPIER, This Day. Napier, wrecked by an earthquake on 3rd February, 1931, has been rebuilt and to-day stands a model city, the completion of which is being celebrated with a. w\?k’s carnival which commenced this morning. There are many visitors from other parts. The carnival, which is under YieeRegal patronage, comprises a comprehensive programme of which some principals events are the Aero- Pageant, at which Sir O. Kingsford Smith will attend, to be held this afternoon at Napier Park, and a race meeting next Saturday. Other events include athletic sports, golf, bowling, band contest and processions. A total of £883,806 has been spent on building since the earthquake, ot which over £550,000 has been for new permanent structures. In addition over £145,000 has been spent in restoring municipal services.

11l the reconstruction of the town care lias been taken to ensure harmony of design, while an important feature is the complete absence of verandah supports and telegraph poles, power and and telegraph lines being carried underground. Another excellent move has been the extensive street widening, a programme which the authorities decided upon when the bar? condition of the streets gave the necessary opportunity. As a result the beauty of the new business area is greatly enhanced. On the Marine Parade an attractive improvement scheme is in progress, the work already completed including laying down of lawns, gardens and pathways, while a huge auditorium has been commenced. A large sum 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 ever £140.000 in' re-establishing the water supply, sewerage, storm-water drainage, and roads and streets, while a further £28,000 has been set aside for stret 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 the numerous functions connected with the carnival during their visit to Napier, including the Air Pageant on the aerodrome constructed 'since the earthquake on land raised by that upheaval. The weather is beautiful and appears likely to continue so.— (P.A.)