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. 

Tours run 1pm every Saturday or by appointment.

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.