By Hamish Clark
The scene of one of New Zealand’s worst mining disasters is set to become a major tourist attraction.
A total of 65 coal workers died at the Brunner Mine and Brick Works on the South Islands West Coast in 1896.
Today, locals celebrated the opening of a historic site.
“Tourism is the biggest employer on the west coast in numbers and it is probably the most rapidly growing industry we have,’ says West Coast MP Chris Auchinvole.
“Tourism has increased during the recession on the West Coast.”
The Brunner Mine was New Zealand’s biggest and most productive coal mine, as well as the scene of the country’s worst mining disaster.
A huge explosion deep in the pit killed 65 men and boys.
“They get a glimpse into the past when they come here,” says Department of Conservation area manager Shane Hall.
“They can have a look at how hard it was to work here. The mining conditions were pretty tough. They can also see the pioneering spirit of the early immigrants.”
The Department of Conservation with the Ministry of Tourism and Historic Places Trust have funded improvements including a walking track around historic remains.
“It’s the story of the site and of the people on the site – it’s had a remarkable history,” says tour guide Brian Ward.
It has been 150 years since settlement in the Grey District, and tourism is now vital for its future.
“Heritage mining on the West Coast and tourism on the West Coast is going from strength to strength. Eco tourism hasn’t even been touched here,” says Grey District mayor Tony Kokshoom.
“Our rain forest and our mines fit with what the tourists are looking for.”
Brunner Mine is now a key link in the tourism chain that is proving to be a valuable asset along the West Coast.
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