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The New Zealand Railways Magazine, Volume 6, Issue 4 (September 1, 1931.)

The Northern Railway Route

The Northern Railway Route.

Although the route for the South line had been agreed upon by the Railway and Bridge Commission there was difference of opinion concerning the route of the North Line. The point of crossing the Ashley page 43 River was decided, and the route thence to the Kowai, with the Weka Pass and the extension to the boundary of the province in view, but the route between Christchurch and the Ashley was the subject of a minority report by Messrs. Dobson and Richardson. They contended for the direct route east of the city, which route, they stated, would save 21/2 miles in the distance to the Kowai. Other members of the Commission advocated the western (present) route, which, they pointed out, avoided crossing the navigation of the Waimakariri, and also avoided adjoining lands which they considered were subject to probable flood erosion. The western route was also more suitable for the terminal arrangements at Christchurch, and, though slightly longer than the eastern, would reduce by 21/2 miles the length of a branch line to Oxford, which was considered necessary to reach the forest there. In addressing the Provincial Council on 21st November, 1865, the Superintendent stated that the survey of the Northern Railway had then been completed, and steps were being taken to ascertain the extent and value of property to be purchased.