More Info →Four RNZAF Skyhawks prepare to 'Bomb' The Square

The first event of Centenary Eve was an “air strike” on the Hopwood Clock Tower. The four RNZAF Skyhawks attacked just after 12.45am. As the jets swooped down to 700 ft. 48 explosive charges were set off from a ripple switch by the Army. Simulating anti-aircraft fire, the charges were detonated in four series of 12, corresponding with the four sweeps of the Skyhawks. Flashes of flame, clouds of smoke from smoke bombs in and around the Clock Tower and three fire engines rushing to the scene of the mock disaster lent an air of authenticity.