New Clock Tower

Although it took two attempts, the original New Plymouth clock tower was demolished in April 1969, removing the possible earthquake risk it posed. But following public controversy, demand for a new clock, and the usual debate over the best design for the new tower, a faithful replica of the original was erected. A few minutes before three o’clock on Thursday 10 October 1985, Henry Rodgers (left) an expert horologist from Nelson, and Alan Reed of Boon, Goldsmith and Company set to work in the mechanism room of the new clock tower. Accurately timed and perfectly synchronised, the clock was set into action ending 16 years of tardiness.