The Wanganui River was a
vital communications link to the Central North Island area for pioneers. It was the only practicable option for moving
goods and materials through the otherwise impenetrable bush.
An extensive fleet of
riverboats worked the river and paddle steamers were an effective solution for
negotiating the numerous rapids in the middle and upper reaches of the
river. They thrived until the river road
was completed and then they fell in to disuse.
The Waimarie is the only
remaining paddle steamer from New Zealand’s golden river boat era. It was restored as a millennium project after
having been sunk into the river bed for 41 years.
Our riverside stopover at
Wanganui was a perfect opportunity to experience a taste of a long lost
time.
Wanganui River Top 10 Holiday Park
Our cruise of the river was a
relaxed, uncrowded and friendly trip. Our
cargo was a box of carrier pigeons that were released with our messages at the
upstream turning point. Again, a
reminder of how things were before even the electric telegraph had been
invented and before Morse had written his code.
Waimarie Paddle Steamer
With a strong breeze
blowing and a tidal race, Captain ‘Trev’ and his crew had to fully demonstrate
their professional skills in bringing Waimarie safely back alongside the
quay. Meanwhile, the homing pigeons
looked on in amusement from the nearby rooftop of the riverboat museum.
Coming Alongside the Quay
A really enjoyable trip
and a great Kiwi welcome from the Waimarie team.
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