For 94 years, Hawke’s Bay has paused on February 3 to reflect on a moment that forever changed its landscape and shaped the heart of its community, the devastating 1931 earthquake.

An annual commemoration ceremony at the Hastings clock tower on Monday brought together leaders, school children, and families connected to the stories of the quake.

The remains of the Cosy Theatre in Napier after the 1931 Hawke's Bay earthquake. Photo / MTG Hawke's Bay

Among them was Julia Mackenzie, who attended to honour the memory of her great-uncle, Roy MacLennan, who was killed in the tragedy.

Mackenzie described how MacLennan and his wife, her grandfather’s sister, were sitting in their car outside a shop in Hastings when the building collapsed.

MacLennan was killed, his wife left injured but alive beside him.

“We were always aware that she had lost her husband in the earthquake, but I only discovered more details a few years ago when we put together a family history book,” Mackenzie said.

She believes commemorations like this are vital for the community.

“I think it’s great. It’s good for people to keep remembering it because it was a major event.”

Councillor Michael Fowler speaks to the community at the 1931 Hawke's Bay earthquake anniversary in Hastings. Photo / Rafaella Melo

The commemoration ceremony began with a heartfelt welcome from Hastings councillor and historian Michael Fowler.

He emphasised the importance of remembering the 1931 earthquake and honouring the lives lost, assuring the community that “their loss will never be forgotten”.

At exactly 10.47am, the clock struck, followed by a minute of silence.

The clear chime of the bell echoed through the Hastings City Centre Mall, a reminder of the tragedy’s lasting impact.

A commemoration in Napier was held a day earlier this year, so more people could attend. The event was incorporated into Waiapu Cathedral’s 10am Sunday service, with Napier MP Katie Nimon speaking about the personal impact on her family.

Napier Mayor Kirsten Wise said central city rebuild following the earthquake reminds locals and visitors of the community’s resilience and contribution to what makes Napier a visitor destination and a place locals are proud to call their home.

“People worked hard to rebuild Napier but also found ways to acknowledge what happened on February 3, 1931.

“Reminders of the Napier community’s resilience and spirit following the earthquake are visible in today’s central city and include many of our most-loved landmarks.”