Earthquake (2006)

The 1931 Hawke's Bay earthquake was New Zealand's deadliest disaster, claiming over 250 lives. This documentary features firsthand recollections from those who survived the devastating 7.8 magnitude quake on February 3rd, 1931. Director Gaylene Preston gathers stories from survivors like Hana Lyola Cotter, a teenager who joined the rescue, poet Lauris Edmond, and a student from Greenmeadows Seminary. The film also includes powerful newsreel footage documenting the widespread destruction. "Earthquake" received recognition at the 2006 Qantas TV Awards, nominated for Best Popular Documentary, and won for Best Sound at the NZ Screen Awards.