Christchurch Tram loop reinstated

Welcome Aboard are pleased to announce that as of tomorrow – (Tuesday 11 November) the Christchurch Trams will be back running on their original loop through the city.

Post- earthquakes the trams began operations on a shortened route last November and have carried over 100, 000 passengers.

A year later the trams will now travel along their original pre-earthquake loop down Worcester Boulevard and along Rolleston Avenue, Armagh and New Regent Streets before passing through Cathedral Junction back to Cathedral Square. The reinstated loop will take approximately 25 minutes and stop at 10 locations along the way.

Welcome Aboard managing director Michael Esposito is excited about the latest development and grateful the tramlines are ready for the busy summer season.

“Momentum is gathering in the central city and having the trams back on their former route can only add to the buzz. It’s been a challenging few years and it’s so rewarding to see progress like this,” says Mr Esposito.

Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel was also delighted with the news.

“It’s great seeing visitors to Christchurch enjoying the trams and spending time in our City. The reinstatement of the former loop will mean a lot to the people of Christchurch. Having things like this to do in the City is vital.” says Mayor Lianne Dalziel.

Welcome Aboard also plan to have the restaurant tram back in the city by December this year.

The next stage will see the opening of a second loop so trams travel along Oxford Terrace, City Mall, High and Colombo Streets, and back to Cathedral Square. Welcome Aboard hope to have this new loop operating by mid-February 2015.

The tramway network is owned and maintained by the Christchurch City Council. Reinstating the original heritage loop track and overhead wiring damaged in the earthquakes cost $1.45 million and is covered by insurance.

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