HASTINGS
Hastings is one of two cities that make up the Hawkes Bay. The other
being Napier, only 20k distant. These two communities are fiercely
competitive, that for the most part is healthy for the region. Over
time a joining of the cities will take place. Both cities were rocked
by the 1931 earthquake.
Ninety-three people were killed in Hastings by the Hawke's Bay
earthquake of 3rd February 1931, which destroyed or damaged almost
every building in the town.
The Urban Area of Hastings in 65,000 people which includes the
surrounding Heretaunga Plains from Clive to the Bridge.
But given Hastings was not leveled to the degree Napier was affected,
Hastings has an ‘older’ character to that of Napier.
An example is the Greek
Orthodox Church
and hotel.
Vineyards for
which the Hawkes Bay in renown and fruit growing were the first
industries for Hastings. With around six hundred people, the town was
incorporated as a borough on 20 October 1886.
Since the turn of the new century has seen businesses returning, and
once abandoned shops of Hastings City being replaced with new bars,
cafés, restaurants and shops. Hastings District Council has been
exploiting the boom, promoting tourism around its thriving and
accessible shopping district, and commissioning new works of art,
sculptures and public buildings, including the new Hawke's Bay opera
house.
The
Hastings War Memorial is located at the Town Hall
Hastings is the mature older brother, and this reflected in how the
community sees itself. Also Hastings has Havelock Nth as a part of its
constituency.
 |