High spirits in the face of adversity

My brother just moved to Lyttelton, a few weeks ago. And just over a week ago there was a massive earthquake. You may have seen it in the news. It was a biggie, around 6.6 on the Richter scale, and it did some severe damage to the town where it was centred and to the city that was nearby. At this stage there are a reported over 160 people confirmed dead, with numbers ready to rise.

My nephew was getting ready to jump into the pool for swimming lessons with his brand new primary school when the earth shook and the wall caved in. He was shipped out to the middle of the school field and safety.

Big bro's house shook up a storm but sustained no damage, other than losing power and water, sewerage etc. He was still evacuated due to a potential landslide above his home.

The town was a mess, and a national state of emergency declared. All descended on the Civil Defence centre to assess, receive food and water, and check on the welfare of their friends and family.

In the midst of all this mayhem, hope and laughter and a fighting spirit prevailed.

This is what happened during those moments after this quake.

The spirit of Kiwi's won't be broken, even if the buildings are. And yep, that's my bro juggling away and hula hooping in there.