1935: Iconic Soundshell and colonnade built

The Soundshell, and its colonnaded surround, was built in 1935 following the 1931 earthquake.  

Designed by Napier architect J T Watson, the Colonnade and Soundshell were projects undertaken by the Thirty Thousand Club.  

Based on designs seen in Hollywood’s tinsel town, the Art Deco Soundshell was the first to be built in the country. It trumpeted Napier's intention not just to rise from the rubble and ashes of the earthquake and fires, but to reinvent itself in the process.   

Originally a temporary structure, Napier’s citizens - initially dubious of the Soundshell’s aesthetic contribution to the landscape - were eventually convinced to retain it permanently. It quickly became an icon of Napier, appearing on promotional material produced by both the Napier Borough Council and the Thirty Thousand Club.  

The Veronica Sun Bay, a colonnade, three grand arches and outdoor dancing area saw Napier restyled as a modern city of the future, a place for fun and pleasure. 

Image credit: MTG Hawke's Bay.