Mike Lawrence, Riverboats on the Whanganui River - Manawatu Conversations

Description

 Broadcast on Manawatu People's Radio, 17th December 2024.   Lived in Taumarunui on the upper reaches of the Whanganui River. There is a riverboat museum at Whanganui. Three types of boat used on the Whanganui River – paddle, propellor and tunnel. Paddle boats could only be used on the lower reaches where the water was deeper and no rapids. Before European settlement Maori on the river travelled by waka or canoes. Late 1800s Alexander Hatrick started a riverboat service from Whanganui to Pipiriki. Riverboat service later extended to Taumarunui to capture the tourist market when the railway line from Auckland was completed. Tourists travelled by riverboat to Whanganui then caught the New Plymouth to Wellington train. Hatrick constructed a houseboat and bought a hotel at Pipiriki for overnight accommodation. The Houseboat at the mouth of the Ohura River accommodated about 40 people with one toilet and bath for men and another toilet and bath for women. The houseboat had electricity generated by a local water wheel. Tourists from Rotorua travelled by stage coach through Raetihi to Pipiriki, stayed overnight at Pipiriki House then caught the riverboat to Whanganui the next day. Riverboat travel ended after the main trunk railway line was completed. The Waimarie and Wairua have been restored and currently run trips up the river from Whanganui. The Ongarue and Waireka are awaiting restoration.  

Identification

Object type

Audio

Date

December 17, 2024