ARTHUR’S PASS TUNNEL

Hokitika Guardian, 14 July 1923, Page 2

ARTHUR’S PASS TUNNEL

THE OPENING CEREMONY

A LIMITED NUMBER OF GUESTS.

PARTICULARS OF PROPOSALS.

(By Telegraph.—Special to Guardian)

WELLINGTON, July 13 Government does not propose any . elaborate ceremony or display in connection with the opening of Arthur’s Pass tunnel on Saturday, August 4th. Mr Climie (of Christchurch) has been invited to Wellington to discuss tho details on behalf of Canterbury. The .Minister of Public Works informed Mr Evans to-night that he was intending to invite about 300 from the Coast, which would cover invitations from Bcefton to Boss. These wool I probably lie distributed on a population basis through the Mayors and County Chairmen. It is not intended to have any official dinner, but a counter lnnch will bo obtainable at Otirn by visitors. The Parliamentary party will probably travel by' the ordinary steamer . and reach Arthur’s Pass about ono o’clock. The ordinary train service on that day will lie cancelled. The Party proceed through the funnel to Otira where tlie ceremony and speech makiiig will be limited to about an bour and a half. Having taken place, tho Party will then return by train, leaving Arthur’s Pass shortly after 3 p.m. for Lyttelton so as lo join the ordinary steamer, which will be delayed for about half an hour.

A through service from Boss and return to Otira, will bo arranged on the opening day. The Minister is anxious to see the line in use and earning revenue.

A special tariff is being fixed for coal of 22s per ton from Rewnnui. Asked if there would he a special tariff for timber, the Minister stated tho question had not been gone into vet.

In reply to a further question, tho Minister said he thought a model of the tunnel and workings would he propnred for the exhibition at Hokitika, and it could afterwards be sent to London exhibition next year.

It is expected that the official party from Wellington will number about 200.

Tho Minister informed Mr O’Brien, AUP., ihaf lie could not provide for a children’s day at this juncture. It would be better to have the working more assured and the days longer and wanner for tlie little ones. Full details will lie announced after the Conference with Air Climie.

Tt is expected a party will motor through from Nelson for the ceremony. No doubt many Coasters will also arrange to travel to Otira by ■* motor as the railway accommodation is limited for invited guests mainly.