Plans Unveiled to Revive Historic Mornington Cable Car Line

Ambitious plans to revive the historic Mornington cable car line in Dunedin have gained traction with the endorsement of the Dunedin Heritage Light Rail Trust. This initiative aims to restore a significant piece of local history while also enhancing public transport options for residents and creating a new tourist attraction. Originally opened in 1883, the cable car line operated for nearly 75 years before ceasing operations in 1957.

The proposal envisions a cable car system that would travel approximately 1.6 kilometers up High Street to Mornington. Gina Browne, chairwoman of the trust, emphasized the engineering marvel of the original system. The cable car featured a “grip car” that was pulled along by a cable located in a channel between the rails. “At the cable house, you would have your big cable wheels and tension wheels that would keep the cable running,” Browne explained.

In its heyday, the cable car traveled at speeds of about 10 km/h. The braking system involved a slipper brake and a wooden block that was placed on the rails to slow the car down, needing replacement every few weeks due to wear. For steep sections, an additional safety mechanism known as a fell brake was employed to prevent accidents.

The innovative pull curve, invented by Dunedin engineer George Smith Duncan, allowed the cable car to navigate curves without losing its grip on the cable, showcasing the remarkable engineering of the time. “The engineering is pretty amazing,” Browne remarked, highlighting the technical achievements of the original cable car system.

Community Support and Historical Significance

The Dunedin Heritage Light Rail Trust is supported by Fronz, which represents around 70 rail and tramway-related organizations across New Zealand. This includes operators from the main KiwiRail network and various tramway museums. Enthusiast Mr. Tollan, who has been passionate about rail systems since childhood, expressed his excitement about the revival plans. He noted the importance of organizations like the trust in preserving a city’s history.

“It is one thing to see an old photo, but it is another thing to actually be able to climb over a grip car and think, ‘oh God, this used to go down whatever street it went down’,” he said. Tollan believes that the revival of the cable car line is ambitious but achievable, drawing parallels to the successful tram system in Christchurch. After the earthquake, the Christchurch council opted not to remove tram tracks but instead worked with tramway operators to enhance the system.

The re-establishment of the Mornington cable car line will require significant effort and commitment. “You have got to start somewhere; nothing is going to happen if no one is dreaming or pushing that,” Tollan stated.

Browne and the trust remain determined, highlighting that the project could serve as a vital link between Dunedin’s past and its future. The plans reflect a broader trend in urban development, where historical transportation systems are being revitalized to serve modern needs while celebrating local heritage.

As the project progresses, community engagement will be crucial in ensuring that the Mornington cable car line not only becomes a reality but also a cherished part of Dunedin’s landscape once again.

For further updates on the project, interested parties can follow the Dunedin Heritage Light Rail Trust’s announcements.