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Historic: Hawke's Bay Earthquake commemorated

85 years ago today the Hawke's Bay was struck by the deadliest natural disaster in New Zealand history.

The 1931 earthquake killed 256 people. Thousands more were injured or made homeless.

Fires broke out in the center of Napier, and the city was effectively destroyed.

Land around the epicentre of the earthquake was raised by up to two metres, significantly altering the landscape. 

The rebuilding effort took place over many years, and has resulted in Napier now being a centre of the Art Deco style of architecture. 

(Photos: Getty Images, Te Ara and NZ History)Â