Before the Quake

Tour a historic house that survived the 1931 earthquake.

Duration: 1.5 Hours

Price: 29.50

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Before the Quake

This guided tour reveals the vastly different island landscape of Mataruahou, now central Napier, before the map was forever altered by the ground-shaking forces of the 1931 earthquake. 

You’ll discover the intriguing and tumultuous past of the old township as we stroll to Scinde Island House. This fascinating time-capsule property was built in 1867 by George Swan, a pioneer photographer whose images are among the earliest of Napier and its people, offering a compelling portrait of life on the Island and of the family who abandoned the house to seek refuge on the beach following the earthquake. 

This tour is offered periodically, please check the calendar for available dates.

Please contact us to enquiry about making a group booking (minimum 6 guests).

Please note:

This walking tour is not suitable for children. Unfortunately, wheelchair access is not available due to very steep old stairs, uneven ground, and narrow spaces. Suitable walking shoes and a coat if necessary are recommended.