Tai Poutini Polytechnic paused yesterday to remember the Cave Creek disaster 22 years ago, as well as two former students who lost their lives in tragic circumstances in the past month.
Fourteen people on a Tai Poutini Polytechnic outing died when a viewing platform collapsed at Cave Creek, near Punakaiki, on April 28, 1995.
The polytechnic said staff and students would mark the anniversary with a gathering at the Cave Creek memorial garden, including a karakia and time taken to remember the 13 outdoor education students and one Department of Conservation officer who died in the disaster.
"We will also take time to acknowledge the recent loss of former students Rory Hayward [carpentry] and Conor Smith [outdoor education] and remember their time with us," the polytechnic said.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with their families."
Mr Smith (22), who grew up in Greymouth, died this week in a climbing accident. He received the Cave Creek Student Excellence Award while studying at the polytechnic.
On April 12, apprentice builder Mr Hayward (18) died in an accident while repiling a bach near Hari Hari.
— Greymouth Star
