Paddle Steamer Resources by Tramscape
The Internet's largest database of mainly European Paddle Steamers past and present


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River Whanganui, New Zealand
PS Waimarie
Waimarie 1.jpg
PS Waimarie in November 2006 : Photo by kind courtesy of Robert Horlacher

Built : 1889 by Yarrow & Company, Poplar, London, England
Engines : 2 double-acting cylinders of 9 inches x 24 inch stroke
Length : 100 feet


Supplied from the UK in kit form and assembled at Wanganui for the Upriver Settlers Company
Entered service named "Aotea"
Sold in 1902 into the fleet of Alexander Hatrick, renamed "Waimarie" and put in service between Wanganui and Pipiriki.
Withdrawn in 1949 and in 1952 sank at her moorings, later being partially dismantled to reduce the obstruction in the river
Salvaged in 1993 by the Wanganui Riverboat Restoration and Navigation Trust which had been set up for the purpose in 1990.
The original engine was refurbished and the hull rebuilt and new water-tube boiler fitted, both to the original design, supported by volunteer effort, public sponsorship and lottery funding.
Returned to operation on December 20th 1999 and to revenue service on New Year's Day, 2000
Now operates from Wanganui to Upokongaro


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