Chain Hills Construction
Please note: this is still a construction site and therefore no public access as yet, 24/7. As soon as it's open we'll be shouting from the hilltops!
In August 1875, construction of the Chain Hills tunnel was completed, creating the rail link from Dunedin to Mosgiel, with the official opening held on 1st September 1885.
Otago Daily Times 17 August 1875:
COUNTRY NEWS.
(FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.)
GREEN ISLAND,
Notwithstanding the gloomy forebodings of presumptive engineers as to its completion and safety, the Chain Hills Tunnel has been finished most successfully, and the workmanship reflects great credit upon Mr A. J. Smyth, the late superintendent of the works. ...
150 years later ...
Stage One of the Tunnels trail, going to and through the Chain Hills tunnel is nearly complete thanks to DCC and some awesome work from the Fulton Hogan crew. It's still on target for an opening in October 2025. Have a browse through the gallery to see current progress of the work.
Image Gallery
Short clip of inside the tunnel