1951

January 21

New Zealand’s worst yachting disaster. 10 people lost when 2 yachts "Husky" and "Argo" sink in a storm during the Wellington to Christchurch centennial race. Only one of the 22 starters finished the course.

February 13

Waterfront strike begins, with all New Zealand ports idle by February 19. As in previous strikes, Lyttelton avoided the worst of the violence and confrontations which occurred in other ports.

June 29

First regular South Island trans-Tasman flights begin from Melbourne to Christchurch.

July 11

Waterfront strike ends.

(no date)

North Canterbury Red Cross begins New Zealand’s first "meals on wheels".

Related

• Year by Year List
• Firsts, bests, worsts and lasts
• Sources
• About the Christchurch Chronology.