Centennial celebration 4 August 2023
Ōtira Tunnel
Determined to celebrate and remember the people and times of the construction of the Ōtira tunnel, the centennial planning committee has the 4 August 2023, 100 years since the opening, well thought out and organised.
The day will be busy from start to finish with information panels and a plaque to unveil in Ōtira, cake and ribbon to be cut, organised and guided bus tours to the tunnel mouth, speeches and enlarged photographs and memorabilia to view.
Event updates for people interested in attending are on the Ōtira Tunnel Commemorations 2023 Facebook page and those who know they will be coming can register for tickets at Eventbrite. Included in the $21.97 (including fees) registration price is a packed lunch and the bus trip to the tunnel mouth where historical talks will be given and other entertainment planned.
A book about the tunnel: the journey to develop it, the making of it and the living conditions for families of the day, will be published in time for the centennial. Arthur’s Pass will be holding celebrations on Saturday 5th August with a 1920’s open home, guided walks and stalls topped off with a dance and entertainment that evening. There will also be celebrations in Ōtira on Saturday evening. Keep an eye out for updates and the committee look forward to your presence at Ōtira on the day.
Text supplied by Ōtira Tunnel Commemorations 2023
Image: Ōtira Tunnel opening day, 4 August 1923 – Hoken Collection, University of Otago
