Digging up Central: History and Tales from Central Otago

Not all those that came to Central Otago were here to work hard to make their fortune, or just a living.  Amongst the thousands that flocked to Otago and in particular to the rushes throughout Central were those who were determined to make their fortune by robbery and murder. In Part One of these stories, we look at two major robberies that took place at Dunstan - now called Clyde - and the emergence of the infamous Burgess gang who operated in the Kawarau Gorge. In this episode, the 1863 armed robbery of the manager of the Bank of New Zealand - on the hill overlooking the town! - is told, along with the fascinating revelation that the money taken may still be hidden under a rock on the hill. In 1870, the gold on its way down to Dunedin was locked up in the Clyde Jail, but in the middle of the night two boxes of gold were taken. Within a short time a constable and his friend were arrested. The dock in which they appeared is still at the Clyde Museum.

In our first episode, we delve into a topic that never fails to capture the imagination – and horror – of Central Otago residents and visitors alike … the Hyde Railway Disaster. We bring to life the tragedy that unfolded on the morning of 4 June 1943: we learn how it affected the lives of so many, including the train driver, John Corcoran; we hear from a volunteer at Maniototo Early Settlers Museum regarding a fascinating item they have on display that is directly linked to the Otago Central Railway; we hear directly from a woman who survived the disaster; and we learn of a fascinating twist regarding the last survivor. 

The story of rabbits in New Zealand begins with their introduction in the 19th century. Initially brought for sport and as a food source, their population quickly grew beyond control. Over the next 30 minutes, we’ll follow the story of rabbits in this region, exploring their introduction, their environmental and economic impacts, and the many ways people have tried to manage or profit from them.