To commemorate the centenary of the Ōtira Tunnel, former and current rail workers will join the local community on Friday, the fourth of August, in celebration.
The Ōtira Tunnel has linked the West Coast to the rest of the South Island for the past 100 years, having first opened in 1923. The tunnel connects Christchurch with Greymouth, travelling over eight kilometres through the Southern Alps.
As the third longest tunnel in New Zealand, the Ōtira Tunnel remains an engineering marvel. Harsh conditions swamped construction, with workers using only basic tools to drive through wet shale and rotten rock, especially the steep track grade required from Ōtira to Arthur’s Pass.
To mark the occasion, a specially-themed TranzAlpine service will operate from Ōtira township to the tunnel. KiwiRail General Manager for scenic journeys and commuter rail, Tracey Goodall, said that guests had been invited to step onboard the train to embark on an adventure that would take them back in time.
“The journey departing from Addington Station in Christchurch will, of course, include the trip through the tunnel by train, retracing the journey through the heart of an alpine mountain made by those who built the tunnel,” said Goodall.
A day full of festivities onboard the TranzAlpine has been planned, including guided walks, historical displays, and live entertainment. For one day online, a handcrafted three-course menu to honour the legacy of the tunnel will be served. Guest will be able to purchase a limited edition minted commemorative coin as well.
The Ōtira township itself is steeped in rail history. During the tunnel’s construction, more than 600 men and their families were housed at Ōtira village, with some of the original rail cottages still dotted along the roadside today.
KiwiRail Chief Executive Peter Reidy said the significance of the Ōtira Tunnel is enduring and is a testament to the hard work of staff past and present.
“The tunnel remains a vital link on the Midland Line and a gateway to the West Coast. Around 70 trains travel through the tunnel each week, carrying freight for our customers and visitors on TranzAlpine,” said Reidy.
Reidy added that KiwiRail has continued to invest in the tunnel, and over the past four years, has carried out considerable work to improve the condition and safety of the tunnel.
KiwiRail currently employs 14 permanent staff based at Ōtira who support ongoing maintenance and upgrades to the tunnel and rail operations on this section of the Midland Line.
“When speaking with our current staff at KiwiRail, you hear the immense pride they feel about their work to maintain the tunnel in all sorts of weather conditions to ensure that we are able to provide a safe and reliable service for our customers.”
Reidy acknowledged the great efforts of KiwiRail’s infrastructure, operations and scenic teams who, day in and day out, complete their roles in the most professional manner. He added that their hard work and commitment to high standards keep trains running safely through Ōtira.
