New tram tracks will have to be dug up and re-laid
Part of a multimillion-dollar extension to Christchurch’s tram route is to be ripped up and replaced, just a year after it was built.
The new $3.6 million, 500m loop was only open for six months before it was closed in January when a tram derailed on the Poplar St bend.
Trams have been barred from using the section of track since.
Transport operations manager Stephen Wright said the council had investigated the cause of the derailment and determined it was a result of several factors, including areas where the track levels were “slightly out of tolerance”.
The tracks would be re-laid and upgraded, he said.
The council would not say how much this would cost or how much of the track had to be re-laid, claiming it was commercially sensitive information.
Read the full story from reporter Tina Law here (subscription required - first two articles a month free).
Do you recognise these men?
Christchurch Police are seeking the public’s assistance to identify the two males pictured.
Police would like to speak to these two males in relation to an incident that occurred on Wainoni Road on 31 October.
If you recognise these people or have any information, please contact Police on 105, either over the phone or online, referencing file number 251031/1056.
Have you seen Rowena?
Police are urgently appealing for sightings of Rowena, 39, reported missing from Christchurch.
She was reported missing to Police on 22 October 2025, and was last seen on 14 August 2025. Rowena hasn’t been in contact with her children and her family are worried for her safety.
Police investigating her disappearance have identified her as being in Auckland, Tauranga and Christchurch in the recent months prior to her missing person report being made.
If you have seen Rowena, or have any information regarding her whereabouts, please contact us immediately.
You can contact us via 105 either over the phone or online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” and referencing file number 251022/9026.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Poll: Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝
There’s growing debate about whether New Zealand’s extended Christmas break (and the slowdown that comes with it) affects productivity.
Tracy Watkins has weighed in ... now it’s your turn. What’s your take? 🤔
-
72.6% We work hard, we deserve a break!
-
17.7% Hmm, maybe?
-
9.7% Yes!
Loading…
