News Release

13 October 2010

Haast Pass Highway to marks its 50th in true West Coast style

A re-enactment of the ribbon cutting that marked the opening Haast Pass Highway 50 years ago will be a special part of next month’s 50th anniversary of the opening of the Haast Highway Pass linking Otago and the West Coast.

The celebrations are being held in Haast from Friday 5 November and through until Sunday 7 November.

Celebrations Group Spokesperson Neroli Nolan says the weekend officially opens on the Friday night with a function in the Haast Hall, where Brian McCarthy’s book on the construction of the Haast Highway will also be launched. On Saturday a market day and vintage car display is being held at the Haast Airstrip.

“Organizing the celebrations has involved a lot of hard work by a lot of people. However, it was important that the 50th anniversary of a road that has contributed so much to the development and prosperity of the Haast region did not slip by unnoticed.”

Neroli Nolan says they are pleased to be able make the unveiling of a plaque at the Arawhata Bridge dedicated to the memory of Dan Greaney part of the weekend. The goodwill of the organizers of the unveiling has made this possible. Mr Greaney was a well known Haast identity and Jackson Bay roadman for several years

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