NZ Historic Weather Events Catalogue

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ExtremeApril 1897 North Island Flooding ( 1897-04-14 )

100+

There was heavy flooding across the North Island from Wairoa to Woodville. Hawke's Bay was hit the hardest with over 12 casualties due to the floods.

North Island

Multi HazardMulti Hazard at North Island
Duration:   5  days - From the 14th to the 18th of April.
Comments:

CauseA depression with central pressure of 990 hPa was moving slowly eastwards across the North Island. Strongly suggestive of convergence between southeast and southwest flows.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

ImpactFlooding extended from Wairoa to Woodville.

Waikato

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at Mercury Bay
Map Location: -36.80963 175.74295
Comments:

CommentThe Northern Company's steamer Waitangi experienced very rough weather on the 17th, and her passengers had a rough ride.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Taupo
Map Location: -38.69531 176.070758
Comments:

Affected LifelineHeavy and continuous rains caused much damage to the roads and bridges.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

CommentThe lake was higher than it had been for a long time.

LandslideLandslide
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe South Tokaanu, Taupo and Tokaanu roads were blocked by heavy slips.

Gisborne

Multi HazardMulti Hazard at Gisborne
Comments:

DamageThe scow 'Pirate' was bound from Newcastle to Gisborne when it was struck by a heavy gale on the 9th and a terrific squall again on the 14th. The vessel was beached but suffered much damage. The 'Anglian' was signalled and it took the crew to Gisborne.

InjuriesTwo men aboard the 'Pirate' were injured and needed medical assistance.

Hawke's Bay

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Hawke's Bay
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicHawke's Bay received 11.5 in (29.21 cm) of rain in 2.5 hours.

Physical Characteristic21 inches (53.3 cm) of rain in 30 hours was reported in parts of the higher reaches of Tukituki, Ngaruroro and Tutaekuri rivers.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

CommentDisastrous flooding occurred as the result of heavy rain.

ImpactMost of low-lying country was a sheet of water.

ImpactClive, Tomoana, Meanee, Havelock, Hastings, Pakipaki, Te Aute, Wairoa, Fernhill all suffered.

ImpactIn some instances houses were washed out to sea.

Casualties12 persons are known to have drowned including 10 occupants of two boats which were capsized while trying to rescue some Clive residents. A man drowned while mustering stock and trying to cross a creek at Chesterhope and another man perished with his house at Waitangi. Total casualties may have reached 15.

ImpactHundreds of families were rendered homeless by the destruction of their homes. Many families lost the whole contents of their houses.

Damage CostTotal damage to the province was estimated at £150,000 ($25,426,000 2009 dollars).

CasualtiesDiptheria broke out in the ravaged area and caused some deaths. Schools were closed while the outbreak lasted.

Declared EmergencyThe flood was declared a national disaster and relief funds were opened in every district. The disaster led to formation of the Hawke's Bay River Board and demonstrated the possibility of reclaiming the swamp area which now supports the suburb of Napier South.

AreaWhole area around Napier and Hasting was flooded. The total area inundated was 60 square miles (155 km^2) out of 100 square miles (259 km^2) forming the Heretaunga Plains.

Stock DamageThe loss of stock was very great. Settlers in all directions had heavy losses of sheep, pigs and cattle. On settler lost 700 sheep in one mob and another lost over 1000 sheep. A low estimate of the total sheep number lost was 50,000.

DamageThousands of acres of pasturage was rendered unfit for use for many months to come.

Multi HazardMulti Hazard
Comments:

Damage CostThe road from Taupo to Napier suffered severe damage through the floods. Every bridge between Napier and Tarawera, over which the Taupo coaches run, have been swept away. Huge landslips have occurred along the road especially at the steep ranges near Tarawera. It was estimated that repairs to this road alone could cost close to £15,000 ($2,543,000 2009 dollars).

CauseThere were high winds and heavy rainfall in the back country which caused flooding. One theory is that a landslide in the backcountry blocked Tutaekuri River which backed up the water. This built up pressure until it broke throught at great speeds to flood Napier and Clive.

FloodingFlooding at Chesterhope homestead
Map Location: -39.58081 176.85412
Comments:

Stock DamageAt Chesterhope alone 8000 sheep and a herd of pedigree poled Anges cattle were lost.

FloodingFlooding at Clive
Map Location: -39.586947 176.912721
Comments:

Property DamageClive was the worst affected area. Only the tops of houses were visible in some parts of town and some houses were washed out to sea.

CommentThe greatest devastation was in Farndon and Clive.

Physical CharacteristicWest Clive and Fardon Road flooded to a depth of 6 ft (1.83 m).

Physical CharacteristicFardon Hotel was flooded to a depth of 18 in (0.46 m) inside and 140 people took refuge inside it.

Impact236 people took refuge in the Clive Hotel.

ImpactIn Clive and Meeanee, many people took shelter on the roofs of houses and in trees. Many were made homeless.

Physical Characteristic9 feet (2.74 m) of water covered the main road in Clive.

CasualtiesResidents from Clive fled from their homes to seek refuge on higher ground. The only place they had to shelter was a high wooden bridge. The bridge was cut off by rising water and their position became perilous with the Ngaruroro River in full flood, and hurling its tremendous weight against the wooden piles. Three boats from Waitangi came to their aid. The shingle bank which carried the railway and the main road from Napier to Hastings gave way under the pounding from the river. The dammed waters surged out and carried two of the rescue boats away to be overturned by the pounding waves. Ten men lost their lives. The bridge at Clive withstood the battering and those sheltering on it were finally rescued.

Stock DamageStock losses were enormous.

Crop DamageCrop losses were enormous.

FloodingFlooding at Fernhill
Map Location: -39.590617 176.762035
Comments:

EvacueesAll residents of Fernhill were compelled to leave their houses, moving to the hotel which was the only place not underwater.

Affected LifelineFernhill Bridge was washed away.

FloodingFlooding at Hastings
Map Location: -39.635771 176.828045
Comments:

ImpactThe main streets of Hastings were flooded and water covered the footpaths. Every family from Murdoch to Dufferin Street was flooded out.

Affected LifelineAll traffic north and south of Hastings was stopped and lines were underwater from both ways.

FloodingFlooding at Havelock North
Map Location: -39.673179 176.882039
Comments:

ImpactThere was flooding on Havelock Road and was several feet deep in many houses.

CommentThe river at Havelock North was a raging torrent.

Physical CharacteristicOne cottage was flooded to a depth of 6 ft (1.83 m) but the family was rescued.

Property DamageA cottage was washed away, passing under Havelock bridge.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust
Comments:

CommentWind gales were high.

FloodingFlooding at Maraekakaho
Map Location: -39.64746 176.619961
Comments:

Stock DamageThere was thousands of pounds worth of stock lost.

Property DamageHouses were overturned by floodwaters.

FloodingFlooding at Mohaka
Map Location: -39.114358 177.197486
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe bridge at Mohaka, on the Napier road, was carried away.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Napier
Map Location: -39.502426 176.892804
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicNapier recorded 11 in (27.94 cm) of rain on the 15th and the morning of the 16th.

Physical CharacteristicNapier recorded 356 mm (35.6 cm) of rain over four days.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

ImpactA great embankment of the Tutaekuri River at Redcliffs above Taradale burst and water flowed towards the Napier township. This occurred almost simultaneously with the break of the Ngaruroro River at Waitangi.

CommentThe flood occurred very rapidly and people were taken by surprise.

Physical CharacteristicNapier was inundated to depths of up to 4 ft (1.22 m). Some houses were flooded to depths of 6 ft (1.83 m).

Physical CharacteristicNapier flooding reached high levels. The main streets were flooded to 2 m water depth. Munroe Street was a sea of water. A boat was rowed from Tennyson Street, right through Clive Square and the little beach and into Carlyle Street.

ImpactMany houses were awash inside.

DamageThe losses of livestock, fencing, buildings and other possessions were substantial.

ImpactPastures of lands were left feet deep in silt.

ImpactMany men spent the night in boats rescuing the women and children from low-lying areas of the district.

Affected LifelineThe damage to the railway was considered tremendous and communication north and south was at a stand still. All communication by land, rail, sea or telegraph and telephone was cut.

ImpactHundreds of families were rendered homeless.

Damage Cost£40,000 ($6,780,000 2009 dollars) was required to repair the railway lines before traffic could resume to Napier.

Affected LifelineRoads were impassable.

FloodingFlooding at Ngaruroro River
Map Location: -39.580827 176.799364
Comments:

CommentNgaruroro River broke its banks between Roy's Hill and Fernhill, threatening the Hasting township.

ImpactLow-lying areas were flooded by Ngaruroro River.

FloodingFlooding at Omahu
Map Location: -39.5798 176.76172
Comments:

Property DamageWhares were washed away.

DamageThere was enormous damage to crops and fences.

Affected LifelineOmahu Bridge and the approaches were washed away

FloodingFlooding at Ohiti
Map Location: -39.61318 176.69128
Comments:

CasualtiesOne man was missing at Omahu and three men drowned at Ohiti. Men were also lost from Pakowhai.

FloodingFlooding at Pakipaki
Map Location: -39.69376 176.79439
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe bridge at Pakipaki over the Awanui Stream was washed away.

Affected LifelineBetween Paki Paki and Poukawa the railway line was washed away.

LandslideLandslide at Puketapu
Map Location: -39.508443 176.793634
Comments:

Property DamageAt Puketapu an immense landslide fell against a house which was situated in a gully. The dwelling was gradually drifted towards the river, down which it floated. The family had escaped unharmed.

FloodingFlooding at Tomoana
Map Location: -39.62616 176.85898
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe township of Tomoana was covered with water. Water was 4 ft (1.22 m) on the bridge.

Stock DamageSheep and cattle were carted by the thousands to the Tomoana freezing works, where the fat and skins were removed and the carcases burnt in the furnaces.

FloodingFlooding at Tutaekuri River
Map Location: -39.450942 176.634072
Comments:

CommentTutaekuri River broke its banks and joined with the floodwaters from Ngaruroro River to flood Clive and Napier.

FloodingFlooding at Waipawa
Map Location: -39.940581 176.600338
Comments:

Affected LifelineIn Waipawa and Takapau area bridges were washed away and roads were destroyed.

Stock DamageStock losses were enormous.

Crop DamageCrop losses were enormous.

ImpactAll low portions of town were flooded.

FloodingFlooding at Waitangi Mission Station
Map Location: -39.565876 176.922592
Comments:

Damage CostThe Waitangi rail bridge repairs cost £20,000-£30,000 ($3,390,000-$5,085,000 2009 dollars).

DamageAt Waitangi, the river banked up and the bank gave way. A large washout occurred causing an enormous breach which swept away Broadbent's fellmongery, dwellings and the railway line from Clive station to Waitangi. The railway line between Napier and Hastings suffered considerably and the bridge at Waitangi was greatly damaged.

Taranaki

FloodingFlooding at Hawera
Map Location: -39.586876 174.27571
Comments:

Property DamageThe damage done to house property and plantations was extensive.

DamageChimneys, fences and trees were destroyed.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at New Plymouth
Map Location: -39.051214 174.06972
Comments:

CommentThere was a heavy gale on the 17th along the coast and out to sea.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe Union Company'e steamer Takapuna could not connect in New Plymouth owing to the heavy seas.

FloodingFlooding at Patea
Map Location: -39.759215 174.475094
Comments:

Affected LifelineIn Patea roads were washed away and the township was isolated.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Waitotara
Map Location: -39.80567 174.72609
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicWaitototara catchment received 2.55 in (6.48 cm) of rain.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

CommentThere was flooding in the Waitotara district.

CommentWaitotara River was in moderate flood and there were slips on the river banks but the damage to the catchment was negligible.

Manawatu-Wanganui

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Manawatu-Wanganui
Comments:

CommentOn the 15th, rainfall began in morning and increased in intensity during the day. On the 16th the rain became an even downpour over the affected districts for the entire day. On the 17th and 18th the downpour gradually eased off in to showers.

CommentGreatest rainfall was at the northern end of the Ruahine Ranges, the Kaimanawa Ranges and Ruapehu country.

Physical Characteristic10 inches (25.4 cm) of rain was recorded at six recording stations over four days.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

CommentAll rivers in the country rose in phenomenally high flood.

CommentThe volume of water in the Turakina and Whangaehu rivers was much greater than on the last big flood in 1891. Whangaehu and Turakina Valley were covered with water.

Affected LifelineAlong the railway line from Wanganui to New Plymouth there was damaged reported.

LandslideLandslide
Comments:

Affected LifelineThere was serious damage due to a series of slips which occurred on the road from Pipiriki to Waiouru.

FloodingFlooding at Bulls
Map Location: -40.174758 175.372166
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe river rose 15 ft (4.57 m) above the ordinary level of the Rangitikei at Bulls.

ImpactAbout 1200 acres (486 ha) were inundated above Bulls and about 13,000 acres (5261 ha) from that point downwards.

Damage CostAt Bulls the traffic bridge was damaged and the replacement cost of a new bridge was £12,000 ($2,034,000 2009 dollars).

Peak DischargeRangitikei River had a discharge of 150,000 cusecs (4247 cumecs) at Bulls with considerable valley storage and overflows upstream. Catchment area was 1397 sq miles (3618 km^2).

LandslideLandslide at Kai Iwi
Map Location: -39.848313 174.931739
Comments:

Affected LifelineThere was a slip on the railway line at the Kai Iwi tunnel. One carriage was derailed but no one was injured.

FloodingFlooding at Kakariki
Map Location: -40.571386 175.641031
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe river rose 15 ft (4.57 m) above the ordinary level of the Rangitikei at Kakariki.

FloodingFlooding at Makotuku
Map Location: -40.11948 176.23558
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe express from Wellington was unable to proceed passed Makotuku and returned to Palmerston North.

FloodingFlooding at Manawatu Gorge
Map Location: -40.31792 175.798027
Comments:

Affected LifelineThere was a washout of the railway line in the gorge which suspended traffic.

FloodingFlooding at Manawatu River
Map Location: -40.31344 175.74075
Comments:

CommentManawatu River was in high flood.

FloodingFlooding at Mangaweka
Map Location: -39.815367 175.786149
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe river rose to a peak of 32 ft (9.75 m) above the ordinary level of the Rangitikei at Mangaweka Bridge at 2am on the 17th of April.

Affected LifelineThere was serious damage to roads due to slips and washouts above Mangaweka.

Damage CostThere was £600 ($101,700 2009 dollars) worth of damage to the Mangaweka Bridge.

Peak DischargeThe flood could have been as high as 232,000 cusecs (6570 cumecs) at Mangaweka with a catchment area of 1076 sq miles (2787 km^2) after a 32 ft (9.75 m) rise at 2am on the 17th of April. It was estimated at the time by Mr G.T. Murray.

FloodingFlooding at Moawhango
Map Location: -39.57824 175.86266
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe river rose 28 ft (8.53 m) above the ordinary level of the Rangitikei at Moawhango wire bridge.

FloodingFlooding at Moutoa
Map Location: -40.507761 175.389825
Comments:

Affected LifelineWater was over the road at Moutoa.

Affected LifelineThe road to Whirokino Ferry was flooded.

FloodingFlooding at Oroua River
Map Location: -40.316054 175.486605
Comments:

CommentIt was probably the heaviest flood experienced to that time in the Oroua River.

Affected LifelineThe bridges on the Fielding-Ashurst road and the railway and the road bridges at Aorangi suffered serious damage.

FloodingFlooding at Palmerston North
Map Location: -40.355525 175.616438
Comments:

DamageThere was no damage reported immediately around Palmerston North.

FloodingFlooding at Parewanui
Map Location: -40.22791 175.31728
Comments:

ImpactThe country below Parewanui was inundated by flood waters.

FloodingFlooding at Pipiriki
Map Location: -39.480016 175.04686
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicAt Pipiriki, Whanganui River rose 30 ft (9.14 m) above normal which was 8 ft (2.44 m) below the level of the flood on in February 1891.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Raetihi
Map Location: -39.42554 175.27633
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicRaetihi recorded 6.31 in (16.03 cm) of rain.

FloodingFlooding at Rangitikei River
Map Location: -39.758799 175.850983
Comments:

DamageThe most serious damage in the district occurred in the Rangitikei catchment when the river rose to a height never previously known. It was the largest flood in Rangitikei in European history and could have a return period of as much as 500 years.

CommentThe floodwaters contained large quantities of silt and logs.

Physical CharacteristicThe river rose 20 ft 5 in (6.22 m) above the ordinary level of the Rangitikei at Otara Bridge site.

DamageMany low level flats were washed away and those remaining were covered with a coating of silt up to 2 ft deep.

Affected LifelineNot a single bridge was left across the Rangitikei River. A total of six bridges and a ferry was swept away.

Damage CostRoad and bridge damage cost £25,000 ($4,238,000 2009 dollars) excluding the Bulls Bridge and Mangaweka Bridge.

ImpactNear river, 100 acres (40 ha) of green forest, including a stand of 300 year old totara trees, was swept away.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Ruanui
Map Location: -39.61236 175.64356
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicRuanui recorded 10.13 in (25.73 cm) of rain in four days.

Physical CharacteristicRuanui recorded 7 in (17.78 cm) of rain in 24 hours.

FloodingFlooding at Taihape
Map Location: -39.67943 175.780024
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe river rose 12 ft 4 in (3.76 m) above the ordinary level of the Rangitikei at Hautapu Bridge, Taihape.

FloodingFlooding at Turakina River
Map Location: -40.05336 175.19262
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicTurakina River rose to a record flood level with a rise of 18 - 20 ft (5.5-6.1 m) above normal.

Affected LifelineNo bridges were damaged across the river although slips came down on several roads.

Physical CharacteristicAt Mangamahu Road the river level was 10 ft 9 in (3.28 m) above normal.

FloodingFlooding at Turangarere
Map Location: -39.5836 175.73592
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe river rose 12 ft 3 in (3.73 m) above the ordinary level of the Rangitikei at Hautapu Bridge, Turangarere.

FloodingFlooding at Vinegar Hill
Map Location: -39.92371 175.62435
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe river rose 30 ft 6 in (9.30 m) above the ordinary level of the Rangitikei at Vinegar Hill Bridge.

Damage CostThe cyclinder bridge at Vinegar Hill was washed away at a cost of £8000 ($1,356,000 2009 dollars).

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at Waitarere
Map Location: -40.555234 175.200166
Comments:

CasualtiesA man drowned on the 16th when his boat capsized in the gale off the coast opposite the Hydrabad wreck, while sailing from Kapiti. His son who was on board survived.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at Wanganui
Map Location: -39.932232 175.028352
Comments:

CommentThere was a southerly gale in Wanganui.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain
Comments:

CommentRain came down in torrents.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

CommentThe river rose to within 3 ft (0.91 m) of the 1891 flood level.

Affected LifelineThe greastest amount of damage was suffered by the railway line, both north and south of Wanganui.

LandslideLandslide
Comments:

CommentThere were heavy slips at Goat Valley.

Multi HazardMulti Hazard
Comments:

DamageFishermen at the Heads had their boats swept to sea or smashed to pieces.

FloodingFlooding at Whangaehu River
Map Location: -39.845139 175.319738
Comments:

CommentThe Whangaehu River was in extremely high flood.

Physical CharacteristicAt Mangamahu the river rose 23 ft (7.01 m) above normal which was 10 ft (3.05 m) higher than 1891 flood. At the railway crossing, the river rose 22 ft (6.71 m) which was 4 ft (1.22 m) above the 1891 flood.

ImpactNear Mangamahu many low terraces were covered with water. In places the banks were considerably undermined or washed away.

AreaAn area of 2000 acres (809 ha) was covered to a depth of up to 7 ft (2.13 m), with probably 500 acres (202 ha) averaging 4 ft (1.22 m) deep. Silt was deposited on this area to depths of 1-3 ft (0.3-0.9 m).

Stock DamageSome heavy stock losses occurred in lower reaches of the river.

Affected LifelineRoads throughout areas suffered considerable damage from slips and wash outs.

Affected LifelineFour road and two wire bridges were completely destroyed and four traffic bridges were damaged.

CommentAll eastern tributaries of the Whanganui River were in very high flood.

Affected LifelineThe telegraph was down due to the wires being carried away with the Whangaehu bridge.

DamageIn Upper Wangaehu Valley the damage done was enormous.

Affected LifelineBridges at Polson's, McDonald's and Harper's were destroyed.

Wellington

Multi HazardMulti Hazard at Wellington
Comments:

CommentThere was a storm in Wellington on the 15th.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal
Comments:

DamageThere was little damage locally but it had serious effects on the shipping.

ImpactAlmost the entire mosquito fleet was compelled to remain in port, and those at sea ran for shelter.

Affected LifelineThe 'Anglian' bound for Sydney via the East Coast and the 'Hesketh' for the West Coast were sheltering at the Heads for four days.

InjuriesWhile at sea, the chief steward of the 'Penguin' had his collarbone broken by being thrown on the deck. The second cook of the 'Mahinapua' had his leg broken from the voyage from New Plymouth.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal at Cook Strait
Map Location: -41.247772 174.473756
Comments:

DamageSteamers 'Omapere' and 'Herald', from the West Coast, had rough passages in the crossing of the Straits. The 'Herald' sustained some damage through the lifeboat breaking adrift in a heavy sea.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal at Whatarangi
Map Location: -41.481433 175.213121
Comments:

CasualtiesWord was received that four bodies were found on the beach at Whatarangi, Palliser Bay. It was feared that some vessel had been wreaked.

References

Cowie, C.A; Attwood, A.K.(1957) FLOODS in NEW ZEALAND 1920 -53, The Soil Conservation and Rivers Control Council, Wellington, New Zealand 239p.
Grayland, Eugene C. (1974). New Zealand Disasters. Auckland, New Zealand: Fontana Silver Fern.
Hawkes Bay Regional Council, www.hbrc.govt.nz.
Hydrology Annual No.3 1955, Soil Conservation and River Control Council, Wellington, New Zealand
Johnston, D.D., and Pearse, L.J. 2007. Hazards in Hawke's Bay. Hawke's Bay Regional Council, Napier, New Zealand.
McDonald, R.(1982) FLOOD EVENTS IN TARANAKI, PART A: HISTORICAL INDEX, Taranaki Catchment Commission, Stratford, New Zealand, 49p.
NZ Met Service. (2008). Meteorology of Extreme Rainfalls in New Zealand (Mark Pascoe, Ed.).
Headline: Terrible Floods at Napier, Boats to the Rescue.
Thames Advertiser, 19 April 1897.
Headline: At Omahu.
The Hastings Standard, 17 April 1897.
Headline: DAMAGE IN LOW LYING PARTS.
The Hastings Standard, 17 April 1897.
Headline: Great Floods in Hawke's Bay, An Easter Gale, Great Damage Done.
The Hastings Standard, 17 April 1897.
Headline: Loss of Stock.
The Hastings Standard, 17 April 1897.
Headline: RAILWAY COMMUNICATION
The Hastings Standard, 17 April 1897.
Headline: THE EASTER FLOODS
The Hastings Standard, 17 April 1897.
Headline: THE GREAT FLOODS, TREMENDOUS LOSSES IN ALL DIRECTIONS.
The Hastings Standard, 19 April 1897.
Headline: The Floods, Estimated Damage, £40,000 required for Napier Section.
The Hastings Standard, 20 April 1897.
Headline: The Flood.
The Manawatu Herald, 17 April 1897.
Headline: Later Details, many Narrow Escapes.
The New Zealand Herald, 19 April 1897.
Headline: Terrible Floods in Hawkes Bay, Two Rivers Burst Their Banks.
The New Zealand Herald, 19 April 1897.
Headline: The Hawkes Bay Floods.
The New Zealand Herald, 19 April 1897.
Headline: The Storm and Floods, Further Particulars From Hawkes Bay.
The New Zealand Herald, 20 April 1897.
Headline: The Storm and Floods, Worst Estimates of Loss Confirmed.
The New Zealand Herald, 21 April 1897.
Headline: Wreck on the East Coast.
The New Zealand Herald, 21 April 1897.
Headline: The Storm.
The Wanganui Chronicle, 17 April 1897.
Headline: Later.
The Wanganui Chronicle, 20 April 1897.
Headline: The Gale.
The Wanganui Chronicle, 20 April 1897.
Headline: Appeal for funds from Mayor of Napier.
The Wanganui Chronicle, 20 July 1897.
Headline: The Floods in Hawkes Bay.
The Wanganui Chronicle, 20 July 1897.

ExtremeApril 1897 North Island Flooding ( 1897-04-14 )

100+

There was heavy flooding across the North Island from Wairoa to Woodville. Hawke's Bay was hit the hardest with over 12 casualties due to the floods.

North Island

Multi HazardMulti Hazard at North Island
Duration:   5  days - From the 14th to the 18th of April.
Comments:

CauseA depression with central pressure of 990 hPa was moving slowly eastwards across the North Island. Strongly suggestive of convergence between southeast and southwest flows.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

ImpactFlooding extended from Wairoa to Woodville.

Waikato

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at Mercury Bay
Map Location: -36.80963 175.74295
Comments:

CommentThe Northern Company's steamer Waitangi experienced very rough weather on the 17th, and her passengers had a rough ride.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Taupo
Map Location: -38.69531 176.070758
Comments:

Affected LifelineHeavy and continuous rains caused much damage to the roads and bridges.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

CommentThe lake was higher than it had been for a long time.

LandslideLandslide
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe South Tokaanu, Taupo and Tokaanu roads were blocked by heavy slips.

Gisborne

Multi HazardMulti Hazard at Gisborne
Comments:

DamageThe scow 'Pirate' was bound from Newcastle to Gisborne when it was struck by a heavy gale on the 9th and a terrific squall again on the 14th. The vessel was beached but suffered much damage. The 'Anglian' was signalled and it took the crew to Gisborne.

InjuriesTwo men aboard the 'Pirate' were injured and needed medical assistance.

Hawke's Bay

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Hawke's Bay
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicHawke's Bay received 11.5 in (29.21 cm) of rain in 2.5 hours.

Physical Characteristic21 inches (53.3 cm) of rain in 30 hours was reported in parts of the higher reaches of Tukituki, Ngaruroro and Tutaekuri rivers.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

CommentDisastrous flooding occurred as the result of heavy rain.

ImpactMost of low-lying country was a sheet of water.

ImpactClive, Tomoana, Meanee, Havelock, Hastings, Pakipaki, Te Aute, Wairoa, Fernhill all suffered.

ImpactIn some instances houses were washed out to sea.

Casualties12 persons are known to have drowned including 10 occupants of two boats which were capsized while trying to rescue some Clive residents. A man drowned while mustering stock and trying to cross a creek at Chesterhope and another man perished with his house at Waitangi. Total casualties may have reached 15.

ImpactHundreds of families were rendered homeless by the destruction of their homes. Many families lost the whole contents of their houses.

Damage CostTotal damage to the province was estimated at £150,000 ($25,426,000 2009 dollars).

CasualtiesDiptheria broke out in the ravaged area and caused some deaths. Schools were closed while the outbreak lasted.

Declared EmergencyThe flood was declared a national disaster and relief funds were opened in every district. The disaster led to formation of the Hawke's Bay River Board and demonstrated the possibility of reclaiming the swamp area which now supports the suburb of Napier South.

AreaWhole area around Napier and Hasting was flooded. The total area inundated was 60 square miles (155 km^2) out of 100 square miles (259 km^2) forming the Heretaunga Plains.

Stock DamageThe loss of stock was very great. Settlers in all directions had heavy losses of sheep, pigs and cattle. On settler lost 700 sheep in one mob and another lost over 1000 sheep. A low estimate of the total sheep number lost was 50,000.

DamageThousands of acres of pasturage was rendered unfit for use for many months to come.

Multi HazardMulti Hazard
Comments:

Damage CostThe road from Taupo to Napier suffered severe damage through the floods. Every bridge between Napier and Tarawera, over which the Taupo coaches run, have been swept away. Huge landslips have occurred along the road especially at the steep ranges near Tarawera. It was estimated that repairs to this road alone could cost close to £15,000 ($2,543,000 2009 dollars).

CauseThere were high winds and heavy rainfall in the back country which caused flooding. One theory is that a landslide in the backcountry blocked Tutaekuri River which backed up the water. This built up pressure until it broke throught at great speeds to flood Napier and Clive.

FloodingFlooding at Chesterhope homestead
Map Location: -39.58081 176.85412
Comments:

Stock DamageAt Chesterhope alone 8000 sheep and a herd of pedigree poled Anges cattle were lost.

FloodingFlooding at Clive
Map Location: -39.586947 176.912721
Comments:

Property DamageClive was the worst affected area. Only the tops of houses were visible in some parts of town and some houses were washed out to sea.

CommentThe greatest devastation was in Farndon and Clive.

Physical CharacteristicWest Clive and Fardon Road flooded to a depth of 6 ft (1.83 m).

Physical CharacteristicFardon Hotel was flooded to a depth of 18 in (0.46 m) inside and 140 people took refuge inside it.

Impact236 people took refuge in the Clive Hotel.

ImpactIn Clive and Meeanee, many people took shelter on the roofs of houses and in trees. Many were made homeless.

Physical Characteristic9 feet (2.74 m) of water covered the main road in Clive.

CasualtiesResidents from Clive fled from their homes to seek refuge on higher ground. The only place they had to shelter was a high wooden bridge. The bridge was cut off by rising water and their position became perilous with the Ngaruroro River in full flood, and hurling its tremendous weight against the wooden piles. Three boats from Waitangi came to their aid. The shingle bank which carried the railway and the main road from Napier to Hastings gave way under the pounding from the river. The dammed waters surged out and carried two of the rescue boats away to be overturned by the pounding waves. Ten men lost their lives. The bridge at Clive withstood the battering and those sheltering on it were finally rescued.

Stock DamageStock losses were enormous.

Crop DamageCrop losses were enormous.

FloodingFlooding at Fernhill
Map Location: -39.590617 176.762035
Comments:

EvacueesAll residents of Fernhill were compelled to leave their houses, moving to the hotel which was the only place not underwater.

Affected LifelineFernhill Bridge was washed away.

FloodingFlooding at Hastings
Map Location: -39.635771 176.828045
Comments:

ImpactThe main streets of Hastings were flooded and water covered the footpaths. Every family from Murdoch to Dufferin Street was flooded out.

Affected LifelineAll traffic north and south of Hastings was stopped and lines were underwater from both ways.

FloodingFlooding at Havelock North
Map Location: -39.673179 176.882039
Comments:

ImpactThere was flooding on Havelock Road and was several feet deep in many houses.

CommentThe river at Havelock North was a raging torrent.

Physical CharacteristicOne cottage was flooded to a depth of 6 ft (1.83 m) but the family was rescued.

Property DamageA cottage was washed away, passing under Havelock bridge.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust
Comments:

CommentWind gales were high.

FloodingFlooding at Maraekakaho
Map Location: -39.64746 176.619961
Comments:

Stock DamageThere was thousands of pounds worth of stock lost.

Property DamageHouses were overturned by floodwaters.

FloodingFlooding at Mohaka
Map Location: -39.114358 177.197486
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe bridge at Mohaka, on the Napier road, was carried away.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Napier
Map Location: -39.502426 176.892804
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicNapier recorded 11 in (27.94 cm) of rain on the 15th and the morning of the 16th.

Physical CharacteristicNapier recorded 356 mm (35.6 cm) of rain over four days.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

ImpactA great embankment of the Tutaekuri River at Redcliffs above Taradale burst and water flowed towards the Napier township. This occurred almost simultaneously with the break of the Ngaruroro River at Waitangi.

CommentThe flood occurred very rapidly and people were taken by surprise.

Physical CharacteristicNapier was inundated to depths of up to 4 ft (1.22 m). Some houses were flooded to depths of 6 ft (1.83 m).

Physical CharacteristicNapier flooding reached high levels. The main streets were flooded to 2 m water depth. Munroe Street was a sea of water. A boat was rowed from Tennyson Street, right through Clive Square and the little beach and into Carlyle Street.

ImpactMany houses were awash inside.

DamageThe losses of livestock, fencing, buildings and other possessions were substantial.

ImpactPastures of lands were left feet deep in silt.

ImpactMany men spent the night in boats rescuing the women and children from low-lying areas of the district.

Affected LifelineThe damage to the railway was considered tremendous and communication north and south was at a stand still. All communication by land, rail, sea or telegraph and telephone was cut.

ImpactHundreds of families were rendered homeless.

Damage Cost£40,000 ($6,780,000 2009 dollars) was required to repair the railway lines before traffic could resume to Napier.

Affected LifelineRoads were impassable.

FloodingFlooding at Ngaruroro River
Map Location: -39.580827 176.799364
Comments:

CommentNgaruroro River broke its banks between Roy's Hill and Fernhill, threatening the Hasting township.

ImpactLow-lying areas were flooded by Ngaruroro River.

FloodingFlooding at Omahu
Map Location: -39.5798 176.76172
Comments:

Property DamageWhares were washed away.

DamageThere was enormous damage to crops and fences.

Affected LifelineOmahu Bridge and the approaches were washed away

FloodingFlooding at Ohiti
Map Location: -39.61318 176.69128
Comments:

CasualtiesOne man was missing at Omahu and three men drowned at Ohiti. Men were also lost from Pakowhai.

FloodingFlooding at Pakipaki
Map Location: -39.69376 176.79439
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe bridge at Pakipaki over the Awanui Stream was washed away.

Affected LifelineBetween Paki Paki and Poukawa the railway line was washed away.

LandslideLandslide at Puketapu
Map Location: -39.508443 176.793634
Comments:

Property DamageAt Puketapu an immense landslide fell against a house which was situated in a gully. The dwelling was gradually drifted towards the river, down which it floated. The family had escaped unharmed.

FloodingFlooding at Tomoana
Map Location: -39.62616 176.85898
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe township of Tomoana was covered with water. Water was 4 ft (1.22 m) on the bridge.

Stock DamageSheep and cattle were carted by the thousands to the Tomoana freezing works, where the fat and skins were removed and the carcases burnt in the furnaces.

FloodingFlooding at Tutaekuri River
Map Location: -39.450942 176.634072
Comments:

CommentTutaekuri River broke its banks and joined with the floodwaters from Ngaruroro River to flood Clive and Napier.

FloodingFlooding at Waipawa
Map Location: -39.940581 176.600338
Comments:

Affected LifelineIn Waipawa and Takapau area bridges were washed away and roads were destroyed.

Stock DamageStock losses were enormous.

Crop DamageCrop losses were enormous.

ImpactAll low portions of town were flooded.

FloodingFlooding at Waitangi Mission Station
Map Location: -39.565876 176.922592
Comments:

Damage CostThe Waitangi rail bridge repairs cost £20,000-£30,000 ($3,390,000-$5,085,000 2009 dollars).

DamageAt Waitangi, the river banked up and the bank gave way. A large washout occurred causing an enormous breach which swept away Broadbent's fellmongery, dwellings and the railway line from Clive station to Waitangi. The railway line between Napier and Hastings suffered considerably and the bridge at Waitangi was greatly damaged.

Taranaki

FloodingFlooding at Hawera
Map Location: -39.586876 174.27571
Comments:

Property DamageThe damage done to house property and plantations was extensive.

DamageChimneys, fences and trees were destroyed.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at New Plymouth
Map Location: -39.051214 174.06972
Comments:

CommentThere was a heavy gale on the 17th along the coast and out to sea.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe Union Company'e steamer Takapuna could not connect in New Plymouth owing to the heavy seas.

FloodingFlooding at Patea
Map Location: -39.759215 174.475094
Comments:

Affected LifelineIn Patea roads were washed away and the township was isolated.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Waitotara
Map Location: -39.80567 174.72609
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicWaitototara catchment received 2.55 in (6.48 cm) of rain.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

CommentThere was flooding in the Waitotara district.

CommentWaitotara River was in moderate flood and there were slips on the river banks but the damage to the catchment was negligible.

Manawatu-Wanganui

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Manawatu-Wanganui
Comments:

CommentOn the 15th, rainfall began in morning and increased in intensity during the day. On the 16th the rain became an even downpour over the affected districts for the entire day. On the 17th and 18th the downpour gradually eased off in to showers.

CommentGreatest rainfall was at the northern end of the Ruahine Ranges, the Kaimanawa Ranges and Ruapehu country.

Physical Characteristic10 inches (25.4 cm) of rain was recorded at six recording stations over four days.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

CommentAll rivers in the country rose in phenomenally high flood.

CommentThe volume of water in the Turakina and Whangaehu rivers was much greater than on the last big flood in 1891. Whangaehu and Turakina Valley were covered with water.

Affected LifelineAlong the railway line from Wanganui to New Plymouth there was damaged reported.

LandslideLandslide
Comments:

Affected LifelineThere was serious damage due to a series of slips which occurred on the road from Pipiriki to Waiouru.

FloodingFlooding at Bulls
Map Location: -40.174758 175.372166
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe river rose 15 ft (4.57 m) above the ordinary level of the Rangitikei at Bulls.

ImpactAbout 1200 acres (486 ha) were inundated above Bulls and about 13,000 acres (5261 ha) from that point downwards.

Damage CostAt Bulls the traffic bridge was damaged and the replacement cost of a new bridge was £12,000 ($2,034,000 2009 dollars).

Peak DischargeRangitikei River had a discharge of 150,000 cusecs (4247 cumecs) at Bulls with considerable valley storage and overflows upstream. Catchment area was 1397 sq miles (3618 km^2).

LandslideLandslide at Kai Iwi
Map Location: -39.848313 174.931739
Comments:

Affected LifelineThere was a slip on the railway line at the Kai Iwi tunnel. One carriage was derailed but no one was injured.

FloodingFlooding at Kakariki
Map Location: -40.571386 175.641031
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe river rose 15 ft (4.57 m) above the ordinary level of the Rangitikei at Kakariki.

FloodingFlooding at Makotuku
Map Location: -40.11948 176.23558
Comments:

Affected LifelineThe express from Wellington was unable to proceed passed Makotuku and returned to Palmerston North.

FloodingFlooding at Manawatu Gorge
Map Location: -40.31792 175.798027
Comments:

Affected LifelineThere was a washout of the railway line in the gorge which suspended traffic.

FloodingFlooding at Manawatu River
Map Location: -40.31344 175.74075
Comments:

CommentManawatu River was in high flood.

FloodingFlooding at Mangaweka
Map Location: -39.815367 175.786149
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe river rose to a peak of 32 ft (9.75 m) above the ordinary level of the Rangitikei at Mangaweka Bridge at 2am on the 17th of April.

Affected LifelineThere was serious damage to roads due to slips and washouts above Mangaweka.

Damage CostThere was £600 ($101,700 2009 dollars) worth of damage to the Mangaweka Bridge.

Peak DischargeThe flood could have been as high as 232,000 cusecs (6570 cumecs) at Mangaweka with a catchment area of 1076 sq miles (2787 km^2) after a 32 ft (9.75 m) rise at 2am on the 17th of April. It was estimated at the time by Mr G.T. Murray.

FloodingFlooding at Moawhango
Map Location: -39.57824 175.86266
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe river rose 28 ft (8.53 m) above the ordinary level of the Rangitikei at Moawhango wire bridge.

FloodingFlooding at Moutoa
Map Location: -40.507761 175.389825
Comments:

Affected LifelineWater was over the road at Moutoa.

Affected LifelineThe road to Whirokino Ferry was flooded.

FloodingFlooding at Oroua River
Map Location: -40.316054 175.486605
Comments:

CommentIt was probably the heaviest flood experienced to that time in the Oroua River.

Affected LifelineThe bridges on the Fielding-Ashurst road and the railway and the road bridges at Aorangi suffered serious damage.

FloodingFlooding at Palmerston North
Map Location: -40.355525 175.616438
Comments:

DamageThere was no damage reported immediately around Palmerston North.

FloodingFlooding at Parewanui
Map Location: -40.22791 175.31728
Comments:

ImpactThe country below Parewanui was inundated by flood waters.

FloodingFlooding at Pipiriki
Map Location: -39.480016 175.04686
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicAt Pipiriki, Whanganui River rose 30 ft (9.14 m) above normal which was 8 ft (2.44 m) below the level of the flood on in February 1891.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Raetihi
Map Location: -39.42554 175.27633
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicRaetihi recorded 6.31 in (16.03 cm) of rain.

FloodingFlooding at Rangitikei River
Map Location: -39.758799 175.850983
Comments:

DamageThe most serious damage in the district occurred in the Rangitikei catchment when the river rose to a height never previously known. It was the largest flood in Rangitikei in European history and could have a return period of as much as 500 years.

CommentThe floodwaters contained large quantities of silt and logs.

Physical CharacteristicThe river rose 20 ft 5 in (6.22 m) above the ordinary level of the Rangitikei at Otara Bridge site.

DamageMany low level flats were washed away and those remaining were covered with a coating of silt up to 2 ft deep.

Affected LifelineNot a single bridge was left across the Rangitikei River. A total of six bridges and a ferry was swept away.

Damage CostRoad and bridge damage cost £25,000 ($4,238,000 2009 dollars) excluding the Bulls Bridge and Mangaweka Bridge.

ImpactNear river, 100 acres (40 ha) of green forest, including a stand of 300 year old totara trees, was swept away.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain at Ruanui
Map Location: -39.61236 175.64356
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicRuanui recorded 10.13 in (25.73 cm) of rain in four days.

Physical CharacteristicRuanui recorded 7 in (17.78 cm) of rain in 24 hours.

FloodingFlooding at Taihape
Map Location: -39.67943 175.780024
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe river rose 12 ft 4 in (3.76 m) above the ordinary level of the Rangitikei at Hautapu Bridge, Taihape.

FloodingFlooding at Turakina River
Map Location: -40.05336 175.19262
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicTurakina River rose to a record flood level with a rise of 18 - 20 ft (5.5-6.1 m) above normal.

Affected LifelineNo bridges were damaged across the river although slips came down on several roads.

Physical CharacteristicAt Mangamahu Road the river level was 10 ft 9 in (3.28 m) above normal.

FloodingFlooding at Turangarere
Map Location: -39.5836 175.73592
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe river rose 12 ft 3 in (3.73 m) above the ordinary level of the Rangitikei at Hautapu Bridge, Turangarere.

FloodingFlooding at Vinegar Hill
Map Location: -39.92371 175.62435
Comments:

Physical CharacteristicThe river rose 30 ft 6 in (9.30 m) above the ordinary level of the Rangitikei at Vinegar Hill Bridge.

Damage CostThe cyclinder bridge at Vinegar Hill was washed away at a cost of £8000 ($1,356,000 2009 dollars).

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at Waitarere
Map Location: -40.555234 175.200166
Comments:

CasualtiesA man drowned on the 16th when his boat capsized in the gale off the coast opposite the Hydrabad wreck, while sailing from Kapiti. His son who was on board survived.

High Wind GustsHigh Wind / Gust at Wanganui
Map Location: -39.932232 175.028352
Comments:

CommentThere was a southerly gale in Wanganui.

Heavy RainHeavy Rain
Comments:

CommentRain came down in torrents.

FloodingFlooding
Comments:

CommentThe river rose to within 3 ft (0.91 m) of the 1891 flood level.

Affected LifelineThe greastest amount of damage was suffered by the railway line, both north and south of Wanganui.

LandslideLandslide
Comments:

CommentThere were heavy slips at Goat Valley.

Multi HazardMulti Hazard
Comments:

DamageFishermen at the Heads had their boats swept to sea or smashed to pieces.

FloodingFlooding at Whangaehu River
Map Location: -39.845139 175.319738
Comments:

CommentThe Whangaehu River was in extremely high flood.

Physical CharacteristicAt Mangamahu the river rose 23 ft (7.01 m) above normal which was 10 ft (3.05 m) higher than 1891 flood. At the railway crossing, the river rose 22 ft (6.71 m) which was 4 ft (1.22 m) above the 1891 flood.

ImpactNear Mangamahu many low terraces were covered with water. In places the banks were considerably undermined or washed away.

AreaAn area of 2000 acres (809 ha) was covered to a depth of up to 7 ft (2.13 m), with probably 500 acres (202 ha) averaging 4 ft (1.22 m) deep. Silt was deposited on this area to depths of 1-3 ft (0.3-0.9 m).

Stock DamageSome heavy stock losses occurred in lower reaches of the river.

Affected LifelineRoads throughout areas suffered considerable damage from slips and wash outs.

Affected LifelineFour road and two wire bridges were completely destroyed and four traffic bridges were damaged.

CommentAll eastern tributaries of the Whanganui River were in very high flood.

Affected LifelineThe telegraph was down due to the wires being carried away with the Whangaehu bridge.

DamageIn Upper Wangaehu Valley the damage done was enormous.

Affected LifelineBridges at Polson's, McDonald's and Harper's were destroyed.

Wellington

Multi HazardMulti Hazard at Wellington
Comments:

CommentThere was a storm in Wellington on the 15th.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal
Comments:

DamageThere was little damage locally but it had serious effects on the shipping.

ImpactAlmost the entire mosquito fleet was compelled to remain in port, and those at sea ran for shelter.

Affected LifelineThe 'Anglian' bound for Sydney via the East Coast and the 'Hesketh' for the West Coast were sheltering at the Heads for four days.

InjuriesWhile at sea, the chief steward of the 'Penguin' had his collarbone broken by being thrown on the deck. The second cook of the 'Mahinapua' had his leg broken from the voyage from New Plymouth.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal at Cook Strait
Map Location: -41.247772 174.473756
Comments:

DamageSteamers 'Omapere' and 'Herald', from the West Coast, had rough passages in the crossing of the Straits. The 'Herald' sustained some damage through the lifeboat breaking adrift in a heavy sea.

Maritime / CoastalMaritime / Coastal at Whatarangi
Map Location: -41.481433 175.213121
Comments:

CasualtiesWord was received that four bodies were found on the beach at Whatarangi, Palliser Bay. It was feared that some vessel had been wreaked.

References

Cowie, C.A; Attwood, A.K.(1957) FLOODS in NEW ZEALAND 1920 -53, The Soil Conservation and Rivers Control Council, Wellington, New Zealand 239p.
Grayland, Eugene C. (1974). New Zealand Disasters. Auckland, New Zealand: Fontana Silver Fern.
Hawkes Bay Regional Council, www.hbrc.govt.nz.
Hydrology Annual No.3 1955, Soil Conservation and River Control Council, Wellington, New Zealand
Johnston, D.D., and Pearse, L.J. 2007. Hazards in Hawke's Bay. Hawke's Bay Regional Council, Napier, New Zealand.
McDonald, R.(1982) FLOOD EVENTS IN TARANAKI, PART A: HISTORICAL INDEX, Taranaki Catchment Commission, Stratford, New Zealand, 49p.
NZ Met Service. (2008). Meteorology of Extreme Rainfalls in New Zealand (Mark Pascoe, Ed.).
Headline: Terrible Floods at Napier, Boats to the Rescue.
Thames Advertiser, 19 April 1897.
Headline: At Omahu.
The Hastings Standard, 17 April 1897.
Headline: DAMAGE IN LOW LYING PARTS.
The Hastings Standard, 17 April 1897.
Headline: Great Floods in Hawke's Bay, An Easter Gale, Great Damage Done.
The Hastings Standard, 17 April 1897.
Headline: Loss of Stock.
The Hastings Standard, 17 April 1897.
Headline: RAILWAY COMMUNICATION
The Hastings Standard, 17 April 1897.
Headline: THE EASTER FLOODS
The Hastings Standard, 17 April 1897.
Headline: THE GREAT FLOODS, TREMENDOUS LOSSES IN ALL DIRECTIONS.
The Hastings Standard, 19 April 1897.
Headline: The Floods, Estimated Damage, £40,000 required for Napier Section.
The Hastings Standard, 20 April 1897.
Headline: The Flood.
The Manawatu Herald, 17 April 1897.
Headline: Later Details, many Narrow Escapes.
The New Zealand Herald, 19 April 1897.
Headline: Terrible Floods in Hawkes Bay, Two Rivers Burst Their Banks.
The New Zealand Herald, 19 April 1897.
Headline: The Hawkes Bay Floods.
The New Zealand Herald, 19 April 1897.
Headline: The Storm and Floods, Further Particulars From Hawkes Bay.
The New Zealand Herald, 20 April 1897.
Headline: The Storm and Floods, Worst Estimates of Loss Confirmed.
The New Zealand Herald, 21 April 1897.
Headline: Wreck on the East Coast.
The New Zealand Herald, 21 April 1897.
Headline: The Storm.
The Wanganui Chronicle, 17 April 1897.
Headline: Later.
The Wanganui Chronicle, 20 April 1897.
Headline: The Gale.
The Wanganui Chronicle, 20 April 1897.
Headline: Appeal for funds from Mayor of Napier.
The Wanganui Chronicle, 20 July 1897.
Headline: The Floods in Hawkes Bay.
The Wanganui Chronicle, 20 July 1897.