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).
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The Canterbury Quartet
You are invited to join us for an exclusive afternoon of classical music with the Canterbury Quartet, hosted by Kevin Hickman Village.
The Canterbury Quartet are experienced professional musicians who have performed in some of the finest symphony orchestras around the world.
Don't miss this opportunity for a harmonious blend of exquisite string quartet music and complimentary refreshments. You are welcome to bring a friend along, and we look forward to seeing you there!
Click read more for more information.
Poll: Are swear words no longer?
In 2023, Apple amended its autocorrect function to allow Iphone users to freely use their intended word without mentioning 'ducks'. Is this a sign of the times? Are swear words no longer taboo in our communities or workplaces?
Type 'Not For Print' if you wish your comments to be excluded from the Conversations column of your local paper.
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20.5% Yes - swear words don't phase me
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48.5% No - it's still inappropriate to swear
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30.2% It's depends on the word
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0.8% Other - I'll share below!
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