Otira Centenary Day
While the Otira Tunnel Centennial Commemorations have been and gone, the memory and evidence of the day of celebration is still apparent in the valley. There’s the tunneller’s hut next to the steam train boiler on Station Road, students’ paintings in the subway, an Otira river boulder proudly holding a plaque of remembrance, a newly published book about the Otira tunnel, gold and silver commemoration coins and the remnants of a buzz in the air amongst locals who participated.
Two years of planning for over 650 people who arrived on the day is undoubtedly an opportunity to be remembered. The occasion meant the old Otira hall with its sprung floor, was upgraded and the station is resplendent decked out as it is with a new paint job. Many took the chance to dress 1920’s style, find old acquaintances and strike up those friendships again. As one attendee noted, it is not often that one can find such a large diverse crowd gathered in warm convivial unity.
Families of people who had lived and worked in Otira, said they had never regretted their time in Otira. They learnt a lot, they said, about life in the mountains. But the day was a day of remembrance for those who had slogged it out, men, women and children who stayed to see the job done and they would leave behind a magnificent tunnel through the mountains – still in use 100 years later. Testament indeed to their grueling, determined work.
The celebrations remind everyone that Otira is the small, important historical gateway to the west coast, rich with its valuable preservation of memories, artefacts and monuments. In 2029, the Centenary of Arthur’s Pass National Park is to be celebrated – Otira is part of that national park and we look forward to hosting you again, here in Otira.
Until then, mā te wā,
Diane Gordon-Burns
