St Mary's Church, Merivale

Today was the first time since the earthquake, that I have been out in my car and ventured further afield. Previously I did not want to be a rubber necker, or get in the way of essential services, also conserving petrol, as we did not know when we would be able to get it again.
A good photography friend (J.A) was celebrating her 40th wedding anniversary.
Her house has been badly damaged, and is running down hill, and all out of kilter.
But they can still live in it at present. I thought she was very brave still having her party at her home, but it was a great release to all get together and act as if everything was normal.

Yesterday the church she attends had its bell tower knocked down, as it was precariously balanced. The bells are now on the ground, and only one was broken.

People have been working hard around the streets, as there are piles of grey sand from the liquefaction all sitting in piles on the side of the road. When the wind blows there is a lot of dust in the air.