Along the TranzAlpine journey
Nestled in the Southern Alps is a small town named, Ōtira. Although quaint, this little town is about to celebrate a momentous occasion. Its historic tunnel, built in the early 1900s, is about to turn 100 years old.
At 8,529 meters long and at the time of building, the longest tunnel in the British Empire, Ōtira Tunnel is quite the engineering marvel. It also boasts the gateway to the West Coast aboard our very own TranzAlpine scenic train.
Ōtira township is abundant in rail history. Built for the construction of the tunnel and the railway, you can still see the original working man's cottages dotted along the roadside. During the tunnel construction, over 600 men and their families were housed in this small village.
Ōtira Tunnel Centenary Event: August 4th, 2023
To celebrate this admirable part of New Zealand's history, Ōtira's local community is hosting a special event.
This day will be an exciting commemoration that includes special trips to the tunnel, speeches, guided walks, lunch, historical displays, and delicious celebratory cake along with live entertainment
Photo: Crowd at the opening of Otira Tunnel. Making New Zealand: Negatives and prints from the Making New Zealand Centennial collection. Ref: MNZ-1691-1/4-F. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand. /records/22866426
Travel through time
Join us aboard the scenic TranzAlpine to Otira's exciting commemoration day.
There is no better way to travel to this event than our themed train. Stay tuned for more information about this amazing experience and its inclusions.
Getting to the event
Join us on board the TranzAlpine for a special themed train