Crossing the Brunner Bridge to the historic mine site
Image: Avara Moody | DOC

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Introduction

In 1896, 65 mine workers were killed here in one single explosion because safety wasn’t a priority.

Today, everyone expects to come home safe from work. When the Brunner Mine exploded in 1896 families abruptly lost their husbands, fathers, brothers and sons. This led to new hardships caused by a loss of income, with grieving families struggling to pay for food, clothes, rent or mortgage.  

The disaster and the plight of the families caught the attention of the whole nation. It ultimately led to improved workplace safety legislation and practices.  

Brunner Mine remains New Zealand’s worst work place accident site. Despite the improvements achieved, workplace safety remains a vital issue.   


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Tohu Whenua are the places that have shaped Aotearoa New Zealand. Located in stunning landscapes and rich with stories, they offer some of our best heritage experiences.


Find things to do and places to stay Brunner Mine historic area

Contacts

Paparoa National Park Visitor Centre
Phone:   +64 3 731 1895
Fax:   +64 4 471 1117
Email:   paparoavc@doc.govt.nz
Address:   4294 Coast Road
Punakaiki
RD 1
Runanga 7873
Postal Address:   4294 Coast Road
Punakaiki
RD 1
Runanga 7873
Reefton Visitor & Service Centre
Phone:   +64 3 732 8821
Fax:   +64 4 471 1117
Email:   BDC_CustomerServices_Reefton@bdc.govt.nz
Address:   67–69 Broadway
Reefton 7830
Postal Address:   PO Box 100
Reefton 7851
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