There is no Depression in Hawke's Bay

EVA BRADLEY/the Dominion Post

PAST AND PRESENT: Finn Durrant, at the wheel, is readied for another soapbox derby practice run by his cousins (clockwise from left) Theo, Hugh and Alexander Gordon and Matthew Durrant.

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Parasol-toting ladies and hat-doffing gents took Napier back to a more genteel era during the city's annual Art Deco Weekend.

The population was swelled by about 20,000 visitors – many from overseas – who turned out in 1930s finery to dozens of deco-themed events, held over a four-day period.

The effort people put into their outfits was impressive, organiser Ann Barrar said. "There were some stunning creations. What's more noticeable is that they really get into the correct day versus night outfits – most of them have quite extensive wardrobes."

More people each year dressed to theme and Mrs Barrar estimated 85 per cent of participants wore costumes this year.

Organisers had worried the recession might keep crowds away, but participation "at least equalled" 2009. "We're thrilled, because we were expecting to have a downturn."

This year's event even managed to turn a small profit for the first time.

Perennial favourites such as yesterday's soapbox derby and the Depression Dinner on Saturday night drew big crowds, Mrs Barrar said.

"[The Depression Dinner] is in a big marquee but a lot of people gather in Memorial Square and sing along with the songs being played inside."

Soapbox derby racers managed to avoid any of the nasty spills seen in previous years, she said.

Missing this year was the RNZAF Red Checkers' usual acrobatics display – the squadron was grounded last month when squadron leader Nick Cree died after his aircraft crashed during a training flight near Bulls. However, the squadron did a flypast over Napier on Saturday.

- © Fairfax NZ News