Ōtira and Springfield celebrate 100 years since tunnel opening
Ōtira was a bustling town with about 650 people when the Ōtira Tunnel first linked the West Coast to the rest of the South Island 100 years ago.
Communities at both ends of the tunnel are celebrating its centenary on Friday.
The rail tunnel travels 8.5km through the Southern Alps and was once the seventh longest tunnel in the world, and the longest in the British Empire.
Although the rail tunnel is now only the third longest in the country, it remains an engineering marvel.
During its construction, tunnellers contended with harsh conditions, using basic tools to drive through wet shale and rock, and with the steep track required from Ōtira to Arthur’s Pass.
A committee of Ōtira residents was set up two years ago to organise a celebration to commemorate 100 years since the tunnel opened on August 4, 1923.
Read reporter Joanne Naish's full story here (subscription required).
Poll: How should Guy Fawkes be celebrated?
While it is a fun occasion, fireworks on Guy Fawkes Night has caused much conflict over the years, upsetting our pets and disrupting the sleep of neighbours.
How should we celebrate Guy Fawkes Night? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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28.6% With a city-wide public fireworks display
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19.7% Small fireworks displays in each community
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8.1% Keep it as is
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32.9% We shouldn't celebrate it!
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10.4% Anything but fireworks
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0.4% Other - I'll share below
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True Story
Trevor, who often travels around the South Island for work was on this day just recently, driving on a remote country road when he was in a serious car accident, rolling his vehicle four times.
Thankfully, help arrived, and Emergency Services rushed him to the nearest hospital.
Yet it was over two hours later until the hospital was able to find out who Trevor's wife was to contact her. More than three hours after his accident!
With Emergency Cards and Tags, first responders not only have instant access to any crucial medical details, but they also allow loved ones to be notified much faster.
When every minute counts, give the gift of peace of mind to each other, in that in the event of an accident or medical event, your loved ones can be contacted without delay.
Trevor and his wife now have Emergency Cards and Tags, for themselves, and for each other.
Order your Emergency Card and Tag today.
www.emergencycards.co.nz...
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