[WANGANELLA 1947]

The trans-Tasman passenger liner TSMV Wanganella stuck fast to Barrett Reef at the Entrance to Wellington Harbour. View from Pencarrow. Tugs attempting to shift her from her position. Once freed, sailing into Wellington Harbour. Mid range shots of the ship.

“At 11.30 p.m. on 19 January 1947 the captain of the Wanganella mistook the flashing buoy in front of Barrett Reef for the light to guide ships into Wellington harbour. The ship, with 400 passengers on a voyage from Sydney, struck the reef and remained fast on the rocks. The passengers were taken off the next day. For 18 days the ship was stuck, saved by fine weather, which became known as ‘Wanganella weather’. During that time there were a number of attempts to free the boat. Finally on 6 February tugs did succeed in hauling the boat free, and they towed it into Wellington Harbour. The ship was not repaired until October 1948.” www.teara.govt.nz