Explained: How will Ōtira Tunnel train derailment impact tourism?
A train derailment is threatening to knock the West Coast's tourism industry off-track.
The TranzAlpine route between Christchurch and Greymouth is facing three weeks of disruption after a KiwiRail coal train derailed near Otira last week.
Damage to rail sleepers and a nearby bridge means passengers have to take buses between Arthur's Pass and Greymouth while repairs are carried out.
Development West Coast chief executive Heath Milne says the timing is tough.
"That's regularly rated as one of the top 10 train journeys in the world, and it does draw a lot of people - not just to the West Coast, but also to Christchurch to get on that train as well."
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