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Otago Museum design services co-ordinator Craig Scott examines the earthquake-damaged Lyttelton timeball, once a prominent part of the landmark Lyttelton Timeball Station, which was damaged beyond repair in the February 2011 Christchurch earthquake. Photo by Peter McIntosh. |
A major touring show focusing on the February 2011
Christchurch earthquake will help convey the impact and the
science behind one of New Zealand's biggest natural
disasters, Otago Museum officials say.
"It is important for the Otago community to take the time to
reflect upon the experiences of Cantabrians as a result of
these devastating earthquakes, Clare Wilson, museum
collections, research and experience director, said.
It was appropriate that the Otago Museum, as a neighbouring
institution, was the first venue outside of Canterbury to
host the "Canterbury Quakes" exhibition during its planned
three-year national tour.
Museum staff could also "support our Canterbury neighbours"
and "help our own community to understand the science and
implications of earthquakes."
Going to the free exhibition, which opens at the museum's
special exhibitions gallery today, could be "a very emotional
experience" for some people, she said.
Photographs, film and audio content evoke the human side of
the disaster, and recovery effort.
Developed by Canterbury Museum, the exhibition includes many
key features - now relics - from Christchurch's damaged
infrastructure, including the rose window from Christ Church
Cathedral, and the Lyttelton Timeball.
From 1876 to 1934, the large metal timeball was lowered from
its mast on the prominently-sited Lyttelton Timeball Station,
signalling the time to ships in Lyttelton Harbour.
The station was damaged beyond repair in Christchurch's most
devastating quake, on February 22 last year.
The Otago show runs until May 5.
john.gibb@odt.co.nz
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