Coal Through the Hole – An Alpine Experience

When: Thursday 16 September
Departs: Christchurch 9.30am (participants to make own travel arrangements to Christchurch and are advised to arrive the Wednesday night)
Returns: Christchurch 7.30pm
Cost: NZ$335 per person (includes lunch)

The South Island’s Coal Route transverses some of New Zealand’s most picturesque yet geometrically and geologically challenging of landscapes. Formerly the domain of brave pioneers and coachmen, the rail route was driven west so that the eastern province of Canterbury could benefit from the wealth of the western gold fields, rather than it being shipped north to Nelson and beyond. Construction of the route was commenced in the latter 1800s by the Midland Railway Company, and the route was completed with the opening of the Otira Tunnel in 1923.

From the West Coast loading facilities at Stockton, Reefton, Pike River and Rockies the laden coal trains make their adventurous journeys east towards the Port of Lyttelton for export. As they climb from the coastal bush clad regions of the West, the trains rumble upwards towards Arthurs Pass some 730m above sea level. The penultimate portion of the journey is marked by the steep 1 in 33 grade of the track Otira to Arthurs and the commanding Otira Tunnel at 8.6kms in length. At Otira, all trains pick up banker diesel locomotives to assist the uphill climb through the Southern Alps, a path previously lead by electric 1500DC locomotives.

The introduction of diesel motive power was necessary with the increase in Coal Route tonnages and the lack of suitable electric infrastructure to support expansion. Diesel motive power also necessitated the installation of doors and a ventilation system at the western portal to manage airflow to alleviate the problems of locomotive overheating, lack of oxygen, and tunnel purging. At 22 movements per 24 hrs the tunnel remains the key capacity constraint on the line and has a unique management plan.

From Arthurs Pass the journey drops towards the sweeping plains of Canterbury, but not before passing through some of the most beautiful scenery in New Zealand. This area is characterised by several engineering feats where trains travel along mountain sidlings, through 16 tunnels and over several significant steel viaducts.

This commentated and chartered field trip will operate from Christchurch up the Midland line with photo opportunities at Staircase and Broken River viaducts before travelling through to Arthurs Pass. After travelling down through the tunnel the train will stop at the Western Portal over the picturesque Otira River where there will be an opportunity for photos as well as a guided tour of the door and fan ventilation facility.

A short journey on from the tunnel and the chance to experience some classic West Coast hospitality at the Jacksons Historic Tavern. Here we will stop for lunch – a famous whitebait fritter or homemade ‘pea pie pud’, before turning around and heading back on the return journey to Christchurch.

This tour presents an opportunity to travel most of the route of the world heralded Tranz Alpine passenger service, taking in all the engineering feats and challenges along the way. Register early to ensure your place on this tour as minimum and maximum numbers apply.

Tour participants are advised to bring appropriate warm clothing, raincoat and stout shoes.

To visit our Registration website, click here.