1880: City tram lines open
160 Years is a series marking the launch of The Press newspaper in Christchurch on May 25, 1861.
Christchurch’s first tram line opened on March 9, 1880. The first route was a short one, from Cathedral Square to the Christchurch Railway Station on Moorhouse Ave. How did it go? The Press covered day one:
‘‘The tram cars commenced running yesterday morning at seven o’clock, and made thirty trips during the day. In comparison with opening trials of the street tramways in Dunedin and Wellington, the test yesterday was not to be considered unfavorable. A few mishaps happened, it is true, but these were chiefly owing to the newness of all the gear, and competent authorities seem confident that the tram will in a short time work with perfect smoothness. A large number of persons patronised the cars, and a good deal of interest was evinced in this novel means of street locomotion throughout the day. Owing to some slight alteration necessary to the curves at the south town belt, the cars will not run today.’’
Further lines opened that year, to High St and Manchester St, Papanui and Sydenham.
But a news story only a week after the first line opened showed the challenges that came from integrating a new mode of transport with the old:
‘‘Yesterday forenoon a horse attached to a four-wheeled cab driven by Matthew Goodger took fright at the appearance of the tram cars and bolted. He started from the corner of Cathedral square, dashed up High street, and in turning the Cashel street corner collided with a carrier’s cart, the consequence being that both vehicles were much damaged, the cab being smashed to pieces. Fortunately no one was injured, and no blame was attributable to the driver, who did his best to stop the horse, but at the outset was thrown from his seat.’’