Welcome to our podcast series
Kia ora, and welcome to ‘Digging up Central: History and Tales from Central Otago’, a podcast series proudly brought to you by Heritage Central Otago. Join us as we explore the fascinating – and sometimes thorny – history of our region. We plan to cover a range of topics that we are sure you will enjoy. But you are also welcome to send in your suggestions of topics you’d like us to explore!
You can access the podcasts right here on our website, or on Spotify and Apple Podcasts (click on the images below to go directly to these platforms).
Pilot: Rabbits, Rabbits, Rabbits!
The story of rabbits in New Zealand begins with their introduction in the 19th century. Initially brought for sport and as a food source, their population quickly grew beyond control. Over the next 30 minutes, we’ll follow the story of rabbits in this region, exploring their introduction, their environmental and economic impacts, and the many ways people have tried to manage or profit from them.
Narrated by Russell Garbutt
1. Fatal Curve: Rail Disaster at Hyde
In our first episode, we delve into a topic that never fails to capture the imagination – and horror – of Central Otago residents and visitors alike … the Hyde Railway Disaster. We bring to life the tragedy that unfolded on the morning of 4 June 1943: we learn how it affected the lives of so many, including the train driver, John Corcoran; we hear from a volunteer at Maniototo Early Settlers Museum regarding a fascinating item they have on display that is directly linked to the Otago Central Railway; we hear directly from a woman who survived the disaster; and we learn of a fascinating twist regarding the last survivor.
Narrated by Russell Garbutt, Shane Norton, and MaryAnn Devereux
2. Murder, Mayhem and Malcontents Part One
Not all those that came to Central Otago were here to work hard to make their fortune, or just a living. Amongst the thousands that flocked to Otago and in particular to the rushes throughout Central were those who were determined to make their fortune by robbery and murder. In Part One of these stories, we look at two major robberies that took place at Dunstan – now called Clyde – and the emergence of the infamous Burgess gang who operated in the Kawarau Gorge. In this episode, the 1863 armed robbery of the manager of the Bank of New Zealand – on the hill overlooking the town! – is told, along with the fascinating revelation that the money taken may still be hidden under a rock on the hill. In 1870, the gold on its way down to Dunedin was locked up in the Clyde Jail, but in the middle of the night two boxes of gold were taken. Within a short time a constable and his friend were arrested. The dock in which they appeared is still at the Clyde Museum.
Narrated by Russell Garbutt, Shane Norton, Andy Ritchie, and David Wallace