Hastings Clock Tower cracks 'probably just the plaster'

The clock tower cracks are probably just in the plaster, the Council says. Photo/Supplied

Council staff believe cracks that have appeared on the Hastings Clock Tower are in the surface plaster, but an engineer has been called in to check.

"It was assessed for earthquake proneness by an engineer last year, and no structural defects were found," Hastings District Council parks and properties manager Colin Hosford said yesterday.

A view of the clock tower last year. Photo/File

"Council building staff have rechecked the clock today and believe the cracks are in the surface plaster, but to be absolutely sure we are having an engineer check it tomorrow morning."

The tower was due for refurbishment, Mr Hosford said, which would include strengthening, replastering where necessary and painting.

"Design work is complete and tenders will be called for within the next two months."

The tower was not considered earthquake-prone, Mr Hosford said - it met 42 per cent of the current building standard.

The structure was built in 1935, after the Hawke's Bay earthquake of 1931. It is registered with the Historic Places Trust as a Category 1 building.

The council was alerted to the cracks by Hawke's Bay Today.

An engineer is due to check the tower on Thursday. Photo/Supplied