Comments for the year 2007 |
Email / Date |
Sir, I was on the Otaki, Hurunui, and others, but have
nothing to add to your ships history, but I would like to ask if there
is any site where I could check there log books, It would make for
very interesting reading.. G A English |
gordy@otaki.wanadoo.co.uk
03.01.07 |
I would like to trace a photograph of MV Papanui on
which my grandfather served during the Second World War. I cannot see
this on your website. Could you please help as my father has his
discharge book and we are trying to trace all of the vessels noted
within it. Thank you for your help. |
orley@waitrose.com
05.01.07 |
Dear Mr Shaw, I was just surfing the net and came across this
wonderful site. My name is John Lambert and my uncle was an engineer
with the New Zealand Shipping Company for many years, his name was
Fred Lambert, does anyone remember him ? Unfortunately Fred passed away several years ago now
but I still think of him often. I would love to hear from any of his
old colleagues and share their memories of him. Regards John Lambert |
johnandchris.lambert@btinternet.com
05.01.07 |
Hi Jeffrey, I sailed out to NZ in 1947 aged 2 and a
half on the Rangitata and was brought back to England by my parents on
her sister ship the Rangitiki, a ship fit for a god even though she
took me from New Zealand, she was a wonderful ship with a equaly
brilliant crew. The Captain was one mister Smith I believe, The deck
steward was called jock for obvious reasons. We lost one old man who
died on route and was buried at sea. Apart from my mother, father,
sister and two brothers, the only pasenger I remember was a young
woman from Pitciarn Island who was going home after an apendix
operation in NZ. We ran through a terific storm in the pacific and had
to have repairs to the propshaft but still made it on time, and I won
the fancy dress for kids (as a rabbit) I still have my crossing the
line certificate from the Rangitata, I won the fancy dress on her too!
(a chicken) I will rake out any technical data and memorabilia that I
can from my big brother and if it is of interest will send info or
email, it will all be tourist class stuff as that's how we travelled
both ways. Great hearing from everyone. Bernard L Bartram |
Joybugmoonrabbit@AOL.com
05.01.07 |
Hello I am looking for any info in relation to the "Kaipaki".
My late father in law, Kenneth Norman Hansen was third engineer,
promoted to Chief Engineer by default during the second world war. We
have some info, however would be thrilled to contact others who may
have had relatives on the vessel at the same time. My number in
Australia is 0412636594 or 07-38418724 Best Regards Justin Riseley |
riseley@bigpond.net.au
06.01.07 |
To Janet Simpson Garrett, I was interested to note
reference to the SS Captain Hobson on the 1st Jan 2007 edition of the
West Australian. Although I did not travel as an immigrant to New
Zealand I did travel as a UK National Serviceman on that ship in early
August 1954. Seventy of us were brought down from Kure in Japan to
Singapore. We had been unable to board a larger ship going to the UK
as the Royal Scots Regimnet en-route to Egypt were over-manned. I was
in R.E.M.E. and had completed eleven months in Korea. i am in
possession of a postcard of the ship and another showing a four berth
cabin. If these are of any interest to you I would be happy to copy
them and send them to you. Hoping you are successful in your project.
Kind regards John Parsons |
caroljas@optusnet.com.au
08.01.07 |
I was an electrician on the Rangitiki voyage 84 1961
and on the homeward leg of the voyage New Zealand to London via Peru,
one week out from NZ the bottom skirt of a piston came disconnected and
dropped out of the piston liner (Doxford opposed piston engines) the
engine stopped in about 1rpm but demolished that unit. We limped into
Callao one engine at about 8 knots (twin screw ship) Perivian shore
engineers dismantled the unit and sealed of the scavenges with welded
steel plates and we came home to the UK on one 6 legged engine & one
five legged engine. I left the Rangitiki in London that trip but
wonder how many voyages after that voyage 84. The ship was scrapped in
1962. P/S I am also in touch with a wartime engineer who sailed on the
Rangitki whilst it was engined with Sulzer engines .The ship was
rengined in a refit in 1948. We both live in Christchurch New Zealand regards Noel Martin |
noelm@slingshot.com.au
09.01.07 |
Dear Mr Shaw
As a young sos I went on board the ill fated Samkey to
sign on with two Shipmates from a previous trip. Sid Holland an able
Seaman was accepted and I believed signed on. I was going to sign on,
but decided at the last moment not to. I wonder if it is possible to
find out if Sid Holland did sail with her and was lost.
Sincerely S Mills |
sidtimaru@tiscali.co.uk
09.01.07 |
Another passer by! I would like to add a late tribute
to all merchant mariners, particularly those serving RMS Rangitata
during the war years. I was evacuated to New Zealand, leaving
Liverpool Sep 1940 aboard Rangitata. We had the most exciting voyage,
everything from U-boat attack to the pleasures of Panama and the
experience of crossing that ever blue Pacific. Wonderful, memorable
days. Sadly, after a blissful 5 years, I had to return to UK late 1945
on SS Themistocles. Since then, I have travelled a great deal of the
world but there has been nothing to match my short period with NZ
Shipping Company's finest! Today's passengers on "holiday camps at
sea" have no idea what they are missing! |
pixie.porter@tiscali.co.uk
09.01.07 |
Hi, have just found your superb site by accident, i was a deck boy on
M.V. HAPARANGI,s last voyage. From Avonmouth to Kiwi and Japan, then
sadly to the scrap yard in Taiwan. Steve Duff. |
steve@dommieduff6.wannadoo.co.uk
22.01.07 |
Do you have a photo of the PAPAROA built 1899 sank
1926. Ian |
toshi2@bigpond.com
27.01.07 |
Hi, my name is Max Fielding and I sailed on NZSCO and
federal steam ships on the MANZ run. MV KAITUNA in 1948, and the
SS.PIPIRIKI 1949/1950.This ship was captained by H.R.M.Smith who
allowed and officiated a crossing the line ceremony on the 18th
November 1949.I still have the certificate issued to each mariner who
underwent the ordeal.
Dry docking in New York gave the crew ample shore
leave to enjoy this great city. I eventually discharged this ship at
Swansea and travelled to London where I stayed with the family
Treadwell at Hillington Heath. I decided to return to Australia and
November 1950 joined the MV Suffolk at Liverpool. What a trip, several
fires on the canvas coverings of the aft hatches from sparks from the
funnel and then a few days out of Capetown one of the twin screw
motors blew. We limped into Capetown and were delayed whilst engine
room wreakage was cleared. To continue on one to two turns of the
wheel had to be held to steer. I discharged from this ship at Melboue
1951 and now reside in Sydney. |
mfi11213@bigpond.net.au
05.02.07 |
Dear Mr Shaw I would like to hear from anyone that can
remember Fred Lambert who worked for NZSC through the 1960's and 70's.
Thanks John Lambert |
johnandchris.lambert@btinternet.com
06.02.07 |
Hi my Grandfather was on the S S Otaki and I wonder
where I could get more information on this, Frances Lawrie |
fcl@induna87.freeserve.co.uk
09.02.07 |
What a fascinating site to stumble upon! I joined the
RAKAIA as a deck cadet in Aug 65 along with 'Gus' Guthrie, Ian
Willets, 'Tex' Pacey, 'Oz', John Layte and Ian Perry. I left her in
March 65 and have often wondered what happened to those guys, or any
others that served on her during that period. I still have my Report
book and several photos! David MacMahon |
davemacmahon@shaw.ca
11.02.07 |
Hi, I was on the Nottingham in 62, I still have
nightmares about that eleven month trip under Cpt: Noble. I remember
most of the crew and some of them where not nice people. Eddie |
eddieforshaw@yahoo.com.au
12.02.07 |
I was interested to read Noel Martin's account of the
engine failure on the Rangitiki. We must have been on the ship
together as that was my first trip as a Third Engineer. Don't think we
ever found out what caused the failure. I do remember all the Engine
Room Crew working long hours for a number of days on the futile (and
sometimes dangerous) task of trying to remove all the broken bits.
Meanwhile the Junior Engineers were left to look after the only engine
capable of getting us across the rest of the Pacific! Not sure the
Chief got his priorities right. I recall the Shore Gang in Callao removed all the
broken bits in a couple of days with specialist equipment. Temporary
repairs were completed in about five days before we set sail for UK. Len Chapman |
mealone@bigpond.net.au
12.02.07 |
Another new one just dropped anchor for the first time
on this site, The names Arthur (ex 2nd Cook, Cook, Cat/off) Well, Dropped
about two hours ago, But a wonderful nostalgic two hours it's been
thank you. I'm a little disappointed though at the lack of attention to
the voyages of those two great NZSC ships M.V's Taupo & Matoura, What
happened, Does no one have any happy memories of them? cerca 69 -
70,71. Taupo winner of the Auckland cup twice if memory serves,
Matches played on that iffy mountain side pitch! Personally cut my own
sea going teeth on the 'Taupo', great voyage, six months on the 'Aus'
coast, Learnt a hell of a lot from the crew and had some great runs
ashore, Just wish I could remember all their names. Dec69-
Aug70,Cook by the name off Derick (liners gone) Smith, that was his
cry when ever the engine stopped at sea, Second steward 'Arthur'
(caused some consternation when 'Doc' Used his considerable decibels)
And dear old 'Jim Riddly' (ass stwd) of "Naff off" fame, still around
guys and Galls. Second steward on 'Matoura' can't remember his name,
maybe someone can refresh my memory? Big guy, walked round all day in
cut down boiler suit; relied on his size & bully boy tactics to get
what he wanted, Soon brought down to size after a visit to the
snake pit, he picked on one of his old acquaintances, Never saw him
again after that night, Ah happy days. Nice reminiscing with you all,
watch this space I might pop back with some more tales if no one
objects? Again, Great site, Long may you sail. Arthur Tillotson |
brewmaster1@hotmail.co.uk
12.02.07 |
what a really interesting site and have enjoyed reading
comments. Both of my parents were working on the ships (e.g.
Rangitane) late 1950's and early 60's. mum (Anne Lee) as a children's
stewardess and dad (Alan Watters) as a steward. I have some colour
photographic slides from this era of ships, docks, etc.like: panama
canal suez canal ships ship life boat drill London docks Gibraltar
Colombo harbour Singapore Port Chalmers Lyttleton Wellington Auckland
Tahiti was wondering if anyone is interested in them or news/stories
about my mum and dad! Ruth Anstee |
ruth.anstee1@btinternet.com
16.02.07 |
I travelled to England on the Ruahine in 1958 and
returned to New Zealand (Wellington) in 1959 on the Port Wellington,
which was a freighter ship and carried only 14 passengers with my
being the only child. On the second trip I remember a "Michael" who I
think was the second officer. If anyone who was on either of thesse
journeys reads this entry, I would love to hear from you. Deborah
Wheadon (Melbourne Australia). |
dwheadon@sjl.com.au
23.02.07 |
Please I hope that somewhere there may be someone who
knew my father and could give me some information. He was a captain
for the New Zealand shipping co in the 1950s and 60s. His name was
Dean Barry Brittain and I know his last command was the Turakina. I
also believe he was on the Rangitata, Runahine and Whankatane.
He died when I was very young and it would be a joy to hear from
someone who knew him. I am doing a family history and far too many
blanks about the days on board have become obvious. My mother Rhoda
sailed with him after wives were allowed but she died several years
ago and with here all the stories I would now like to know. If any
interest I have many log books and charts belonging to my father of
time and wondered what to do with these. My name is Jane and I now
live in Brisbane, any help would be so appreciated Thanking you
Jane |
jane@ketleys.com
23.02.07 |
Hugh Scott Munro, My father Hugh Scott Munro died
today, 22nd February 2007. He was Chief Engineer with New Zealand
Shipping Company until his retirement in 1983. If anyone who sailed
with him wishes to contact me then my e-mail address Regards, Finlay
Munro. |
FIN22@UWCLUB.NET
23.02.07 |
I am trying to trace information on a Liberty
ship named the "Sam Key". In 1948 I was serving as the radio officer
on the "City of St Albans", another Liberty ship, and we were in
Auckland loading for a return trip to the Eastern Seabord of the USA
and Canada. The "Sam Key" was also loading in the same dock. As I had
constant radio transmitter trouble I went on the "Sam Key" to see if
the R/O on board had had similar problems. Unfortunately it had
different equipment. The "Sam Key" sailed several days before us. We maintained contact for several days before getting
out of range. Some time after this I received an all station message
from an American Naval station saying that the "Samkey" was over due
at some place or other, I have forgotten where. This was later
cancelled but another one was issued a few days later. In your page
for 2004 someone enquired about the "Sam Key" which had been lost in
the Bermuda Triangle! Strangely enough there is no mention of a am
Key" in the list of Liberty Ships built. Any details would be greatly
appreciated. Best wishes Bob Emmett |
robert.boxhill@btinternet.com
08.03.07 |
We are trying to find JOHN AYRES (TROG) who sailed as a
cadet on m.v. Durham from 1956- 1959. If anyone has any information
where he can be contacted this would be greatly appreciated. Many
Thanks, Scott Gilchrist, Henry McCutchan, Peter Matthews |
pmatthews@clearwater.ca
15.03.07 |
Hi my name is Andrew Lennox and I am looking for
information on Norm Robertson (not sure of the spelling of Robertson)
who may have been on any of the following ships,
Rangitiki, Rangitane, Rangitoto, Remurea, Turakina or Haparangi, in
1965,66 as an engineer. He was from Scotland. If anybody knows of him or
his current whereabouts please contact me on 021 401 359 or 078831558
many thanks |
aslennox@ihug.com.au
30.03.07 |
My grandfather - Thomas Wilson - was a bedroom steward
on the Rangitiki 2. He was drowned in Waitemate Harbour on the 30th
March 1954 and buried in New Zealand. We would love to find a
picture of the Rangitiki 2 to add to our family history. Do you know
where we might obtain one?
Many thanks Dr Barry Wilson The Vicarage
Vicarage Lane Madeley Cheshire England CW3 9PQ |
vicarmailplease@ukonline.co.uk
31.03.07 |
Re New Zealand Shipping Company post war vessels.
I can add a few dates of completion for ships and also
refer to a couple of books which can add further information:
MV RANGITOTO, built 1949
MV RANGITANE built 1949
MV RUAHINE built 1951
MV SUSSEX built 1949
MV NOTTINGHAM built 1950
SS DORSET built 1949 (if is the vessel constructed by
the firm Alexander Stephen and Sons, Linthouse).
Pictures on many of these ships and information about
them can be found in:
Stewart, I.G., The ships that serve New Zealand,
volume 1 British and European Lines, Wellington, Reed, 1964.
I am unsure of the fate of RANGITOTO but she is well
covered in Scott Baty's book "Ships that passed" (1984). (page 184).
Finally re CAMBRIDGE. My understanding was that she
was built as SUSSEX in 1937 (PAREORA was not used), became PALANA in
1946 as part of the P & O fleet, and became CAMBRIDGE in 1954 as part
of the F.S.N. Co. fleet. She was sold for scrap to Japan in 1962.
Tony Cavanagh |
tonycav40@hotmail.com
03.04.07 |
In response to Bob Emmett's enquiry and for general
interest, the Liberty ship "Carl Thusgaard" was renamed "Samkey" on
24.12.1943. Managed by NZSCo., she left London for Santiago, Cuba in
ballast on 24.1.48 and was last reported 31.1.48 in 41o48'N-34o00'W.
Presumed foundered shortly afterwards when ballast shifted in rough
weather.
This information comes from the book "Crossed Flags"
published in 1997 by the World Ship Society.
The Company's "Leicester", ex "Samesk", was nearly
lost in similar circumstances during September 1948 but survived under
a variety of names until scrapped in 1966. |
saxonia@actrix.com.au
03.04.07 |
Dear Sir, Came across NZSO by chance. I started off as a cabin
boy in the MV Whakatane in 1957. The crew joined her on her second set
of voyages (three trips) per signing in New York she was undergoing
repairs in Todd Shipyard. I spent just under 18 months on her which
was the trip time of three voyages. When we were on the ship it
was called the MANZ run. If you or anyone else is interested I have
some slide photos that I took of when the Whakatane was in dry dock in
New York and going through the Panama Canal in the 50s. I could email
these to anyone who is interested. I am now 66 years old and retired.
Regards Doug Reed |
dougejreed@blueyonder.co.uk
03.04.07 |
Graham Peers here updating from 2004 l have heard from
so many old sea buddies in the passed three year l think this sight is
great even had a visit from Gary O keeffe ex-turakina came over to
Canada from new Plymouth (nz) for two week vacation would like to hear
from David (chas) Taylor radio Northumberland ,just heard from Dave
Kilty he is retiring this year from the Canadian coast guard
inspectors job. Still trying to find Biff Hammond 2nd eng
Northumberland hope to hear from any of the old nzs crowd so for now
happy sailing Graham |
apeers@rogers.com
03.04.07 |
FURTHER TO MY MESSAGE Sept.2006 Great progress has
been made with the organisation of a commemorative reunion to
celebrate the 50th. anniversary of the OTAIO's maiden voyage from
Liverpool in 1958. Most of the cadets who sailed on the first voyage
have been contacted. However there are a few, out of the original 30
deck cadets, who have not been traced as yet. They are : Van Leer,
R.Ashton, C.Dawes, 'Digger' Woodley, T.Bulkley and D.Quiggin. If anyone
knows of their whereabouts please email me. This unique and memorable
event will be held on Friday 13th.June 2008. Lunch will be at the
Merseyside Marime Museum's restaurant and the following hours at a
lounge bar at Crosby so that we can all reminisce, down invigorating
beverages and have a splendid time. We are limited to 80 people but
there are a few places left. The ties that were forged as 18 year olds
can never be broken despite the passing of half a century. |
harrysimpson2003@yahoo.fr
03.04.07 |
Our Father (Donald Reid McLelland)
I can vaguely remember him. He was born on 19th
February 1898 in Govan, Glasgow and died on 9th November 1945. I would
have been only 4 years of age at the time when he was taken from my
us. However, my research indicates that by all accounts he led a full
life in his 47 years. He joined the The Royal Scots on 16th July 1915
and served in that Regiment until 4th June 1919. My research then
shows that he joined the Black Watch on 4th April 1921. He then left
the Black Watch and joined the 6th/7th regiment Black Watch on 31st
December 1921. (What our father done between the period on leaving the
Royal Scots and joining the Black Watch remains a mystery.) There he
remained, in The Black Watch until he was discharged on 7th March
1924. Again there was a short period between the time he left the Army
and enlisting in The Merchant Navy as a Fireman/Trimmer on the SS
Teespool on 24th October 1925. This was the war years and he continued
to serve in the ‘’Red Duster Navy’’ until 1943 sailing in many ships.
Here was a man, our father, whom I knew very little about, who had
served in the The Royal Scots, The Black Watch and the Merchant Navy.
. For a total of approximately 28 years. I felt desperate to find out
more. Especially his service within both the Army and The Merchant
Navy. I will record the fact that he did find time to marry and have a
family. Not once but twice... I cannot comment on his first marriage,
if there was a break-up of the marriage or if his wife died. I suspect
the latter because from this union there were three children in his
care and they needed a mother. He then married a young woman 14 years
his junior. This young woman was born 1912 and that would have made
her 18years old when she married. Here was an 18 years old woman
marrying a man 14 years her senior with three children the oldest not
much younger than herself. That tells a story in itself. (Which I have
no intentions of exploring at this time) From this union there were
born five children. I will look on the time he spent in the Merchant
Navy. His ‘’ Certificate of Discharge ‘’ Similar to a Log Book shows
dates when taken on and discharged from a ship. This was an
accountable document and meant a great deal to a Sailor. Lose this and
your chance to get a quick berth is lost. During my research there was
2 entries I found particularly interesting and the more I delved into
them the more I found myself being taken over by bouts of emotion. The
two ships I wish to mention are the ‘’Port Denison’’ Official No;
1142397. A steam cargo ship with a tonnage of 8000 gross. And the
other ‘’ N.C. Monberg ‘’ Official No; 167478 another steam ship and
with a tonnage of 2301 gross. Both were not particularly large
vessels. My father signed on the ‘’ Port Denison ‘’ and boarded her at
Methil Docks on 23rd September 1940. Some time between that date and
26th September she left the docks as the Flagship holding the
commodore of a Convoy holding 44 ships which were heading for Auckland
in New Zealand. On the 26th September 1940 ! when 6 nautical miles
N.E. off Peterhead in Scotland ‘’Port Denison’’ was attacked by
Luftwaffe torpedoed and machine-gunned. With the lose of 16 of her
crew. The remainder of which 8 landed safely and 2 were rescued. The
‘’ Port Deniston ‘’ sank the next day. My father was one of the lucky
ones and landed safely at Methil docks. His Logbook confirms that his
next ship was the N.C. Monberg signing on 5th November 1940 again at
Methil Docks and was on that ship when she was torpedo by a German
motor Torpedo boat on 15th Dec 1940,when on her way to London with a
cargo of coal. The N.C Monberg sank with the loss of nine crew. My
father was again one of the lucky ones. He officially signed off on
the 30th December 1940. He then remained ashore for approximately 6
months recovering from injures received. Obviously the call of the sea
or duty saw him return to Navy on 23rd July 1941. He continued in the
Merchant Navy until he was discharged on medical grounds in 1944. God
must have been on his side – or was he. No! The N.C Monbeg incident
eventually caught up with him, to the extent that our father’s health
began to deteriorate rapidly and as a result died on 9th November
1945. This left our mother with eight children (Andrew, Elizabeth &
Donald) from his first marriage to a Margaret Oswald and (Tessa, Helen.Kathe, Ona
and myself the youngest) from his second marriage to our mother
Danalena Knewlands. This obviously must have been a devastating blow
to mother and all her siblings. I when going on 5 years of age
could only vaguely remember sitting on my father’s knee but
unfortunately cannot recall much that was going on around me. But, as
I grew older I began to feel that I had missed out somewhere. As the
years continued to roll by I developed a need to know and only
recently I began to research his short life. The path I took, the
verification of all the events uncovered, like any normal son gave me
great satisfaction. I now know without doubt that a son does needs his
father to help him on his journey through life especially in the
earlier years. I feel extremely proud of his achievement in his short
life which must have been ‘’Hellish’’ to say the least. There is one
thing I did carry on from the memories of my Dad and that was to
pursue a career in a Scottish regiment. ‘’The Black Watch’’. ‘’Father
R.I.P.’’
Service history between 1915 & 1944
a. Served in The Royal Scots 16th July 1915 - until
4th June 1919
b. I must assume he was working during this 2 year
interval in his service career. His record of Employment shows he was
a miner.
c. Served in The Black Watch 4th April 1921 - until
7th March 1924
d. Served in the Merchant Navy 14th October 1925 -
until 17th January 1944
(When he was discharged as medically unfit for any
further Merchant Navy service)
Research carried out by: - Allan H McLelland BEM
(Retired Warrant Officer) Son of Donald McLelland
The Black Watch Army N0; 23661955
Dated 18th April 2007
Port Denison Visited Auckland 9 times between 1925 and
1939.
All you brave men of The Merchant Fleet should be
extremely proud of yourselves.
Allan Editor:
I was going to scrap this email as it had no relationship whatso ever with the History Of New Zealand Shipping but it stayed as
i felt the story was a powerful reminder to anyone who goes out to sea
everyone is family. |
all@nmclelland.wanadoo.co.uk
19.04.07 |
Can you tell me what happened to the
painted panels by English artist Ben Nicholson that were made for the
Rangitane (2) when it was broken up in the 1970s. I would be most
grateful for any information you could give me. Yours sincerely,
Victoria Robson |
VickiR@tepapa.govt.nz
21.04.07 |
Would like to hear from anyone who sailed on the
Nottingham on her voyages in laate '70 and '71. I joined the Company
in July 1967 as 2nd Radio Officer sailing Surrey from Gladstone Dock
Liverpool in early July. Think we broke down 19 times on the way to
Fremantle lulu of a fire before Fremantle I remember sitting in the
Radio Room Chair anticipating sending an SOS- some baptism! Happy days
on the Northumberland, Essex, Wharanui and Nottingham followed, spent
an idllyic summer of '68 "Coasting the UK". Happy days indeed. The
voyages on the Nottingham under skipper Albert Britten (?)were
memorable times - we had a wonderful crew Murdo the Freezer , and
Brian Curtis et al. I wonder how many of them are on the net?
Colin G. Anderson |
colin_g_anderson@onetel.net
24.04.07 |
Hello, is it just possible to get a colour photo of
the S S Ruapehu built 1901-1931 and if so what price, thanks Jim Crook |
j.crook@clear.net.nz
02.05.07 |
Dear Mr Shaw I am researching the Merchant Ships of Malta Convoy
'Operation Pedestal' 1942 and am hoping that you orone of your readers can tell me the name of the Master
of SS Dorset, (New Zealand Shipping Company), at the time she was sunk
13th August 1942. Thank you. John White. |
melbourne.star@ntlworld.com
02.05.07 |
M.V. HERTFORD Official Number 182914 Launched by
Vickers-Armstrongs Ltd - Newcastle in March 1948 and delivered to
F.S.N.Co in December 1948. I sailed on the MV Hertford on 2nd
January 1959 from Victoria Docks in London to various ports around New
Zealand via the Panama Canal. I was a young lad of 18 and on my second
trip to sea. Ports of call were Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch,
Lyttelton, Port Chalmers, Dunedin, Invercargill, and the coldest place
I have ever been to Port Bluff. We eventually ended the voyage back in
Liverpool on the 3rd July 1959. A great ship with some good memories.
Richard Harvey (R693979) |
richardharvey35@talktalk.net
02.05.07 |
Hi, I am John Graham I sailed to N.Z. on the Rangitoto
leaving Royal Albert Dock on 10 Feb. 1961.I would dearly love to hear
from Lee & Paula Easthope who I think went to Wellington. Lee and I
were in the same cabin on "D deck" a friend of ours was Maisie Holt, if
anyone else can remember this trip please contact me. |
johngraham@slingshot.com.au
02.05.07 |
Hi I am Ken Reynard, I joined Remuera in June 1962 and
remained with her until we left her in Hong Kong in Jan 65. I then
joined Rangitoto in March 65 till Nov 66. I was a utility stwd on the
Rem. and have happy memories of a happy ship. I remember the trip we
had to evacuate people from the Azores after an earthquake. We only
took them 20 miles to another island.We took on 360 evacuees using the
crash boats as lifts to bring them on board from a couple of landing
craft. Captain Lawson used to steer so close to the Pacific islands we
would wave to people on the beach. I would like to hear from any
galley crew of the Rem. or if anyone knows Tony Walachek & Peter
Venner. |
kenneth.reynard@ntlworld.com
09.05.07 |
My name is Ray Jolliffe and I sailed on the Ruahine,
Hurinui, Dorset and Whangaroa all in the engine room. anyone is
interested contact me |
elray.j@nettel.net.nz
16.05.07 |
Can anyone remember a cargo ship called SS Wainui
which sailed to New Zealand via Sri Lanka (Ceylon) and Singapore in
the late 1960s - possibly around 1968 -and if so, the name of the
captain? many thanks Kathleen Wynn |
wordco@clear.net.nz
24.05.07 |
To whom it may concern or interested, I'm seeking
information on a Surgeon ,Dr whom arrived in the colonies 1899 but I
don't know the ship..... Currently I am in possession of his autograph
book which contains some 800-900 early pioneers autographs from his
homeland and all around the world. His name is Thomas Leslie Crooke
born Mar 04 1861 Sheffield, England. He matriculated Edinburgh
University in 1882 as a surgeon, signed the fly leaf page Sept 1882
which was also his 21st birthday year. He worked as as ships surgeon on
the P&O Line then The NZ Shipping Line before arriving on ship.....to
NZ 1899. Possibly the SS Rimutaka or Ruahine? Of Interest: Some of his
amassed autographs I believe are from a family of apprentices to
captains and masters, to the Commodore of the NZ Shipping Line.
T.S.Weston :(Thomas Shailor) Sept 11 1861 SS Ruahine died London.
Commodore. Much history involved great sea adventures.
Arthur.W.McKellar: May 19? Captain, Master
E.G.Wotton: (Edmund Garner) 1864 Jan 3 Marine Engineer,
ss Tekoa ,Ruapehu, rejoined as 3rd engineer ss Tekoa
J.H.Squires Oct 18? RMS Rimutaka
Alfred Stevens:Feb 5 1846 Captain
Geo.W.Gordon: (George) Oct 27 1861 Master "Java"
Archibald Hamilton Ryley:July 21 1877 Chief Officer
Kaipara 1904 Fourth officer Tekoa, Rimutaka, and Kaikoura then Otarama
2nd Officer, Paparoa, chief officer ss Rakanoa. transfered Kaipara, obtained Master 1901.
I believe most of these men were troop carriers in WW1
Many prominent people appear in the Drs autograph book so I will keep
this to the Maritime. Hoping a record and ship name will appear of
Thomas Leslie Crooke sailing into NZ 1899. With thanks and
appreciation Shane P Duffy Christchurch, NZ. |
shamusthekiwi_46@yahoo.com.au
13.06.07 |
Please can you help. I am trying to find out more information about an
old ship of the NZ Shipping Co "The Paparoa" around 1963/64. I
am trying to find info out for my father in law who was an able seaman
aboard the Paparoa by the name of Ralph Tennent (known as Barney). We
know that in 1970 the ship was broken up but would love to find out
more about it's history and crew list for that time. are you able to
help out please or maybe point me in the right direction of someone
who can many thanks Paula Tennent |
tennentsfrance@aol.com
15.06.07 |
Hi We are working on our family tree and we are trying
to establish what happened to the vessel 'Waimate (2)'. Our records
indicate a deceased relative, John Bright Makepeace was the Commander
of this ship in 1919. The table above (item 31) states that this
vessel was wrecked on 18/6/25. We are keen to understand what happened
to the crew, passengers and ship to enable us to update our family
tree. We are interested to know if John Bright Makepeace was still the
commander of this ship at the time it was wrecked. Could you please
confirm if you have any specific information relating to this vessel
or where we may be able to obtain this information from. Regards,
Linda McGuinness |
linda_ajones@yahoo.com.au
17.06.07 |
I am looking for information on a Charles Brown Scott
Seaman who died at sea on or about the 14/02/1990 of the coast of
Bundaberg Queensland Australia Can any one help me please Thank you
Wayne Woodward |
wwoodward@paradise.net.nz
04.07.07 |
Hi, Several of us here are keen to have a model made
of the Tongariro which sank near here in NZ 1916. We have good
photographs but are keen to acquire more detail such as a copy of the
General Arrangement of the ship...or any other plans that may assist
Cheers Will Coop... |
okepuha@xtra.com.au
04.07.07 |
A small group of us are interested in
having a model made of the SS Tongariro which sank nr here in 1916.We
have some photos but the model man is really in need of some more
detail. He would like a copy of the General Arrangement most of
all. Cheers Will Coop
Okepuha Stn
PO Box 1, Mahia 4166
P - 06-8375842 |
okepuha@xtra.com.au
04.07.07 |
Vessels_of_New_Zealand_Shipping: MV Palana - struck
rock/reef off Mackay 1950-51 My father, Neil Todkill, was the salvage
diver, from Brisbane. Mrs V Knox |
jvknoxy@bigpond.com
09.07.07 |
I was an engineer on the Tyrone which was part of the
Avenue Shipping Co and we did seem to have some connection to the NZ
Shipping Co as cargos and similar stuff seemed to be arranged via
them. Perhaps they were just agents for the Avenue Co. as this was
almost 50 years ago, Just a bit of trivia stuck in my mind, Regards
Brian Hopgood |
brianhopgood@hotmail.com
22.07.07 |
hello shipmates i signed on board the samkey 1947 as
a.b which was as we now know her last but one round trip we were
running mostly between nz ports and makatea loading phosphates on
returning yo uk we paid off in london 29.12 1947 on hearing that my
fiancee was ill in hospital exeter i decided to come home to see her
during the time i was home the samkey sailed and we all know now what
happened during the 12 months i was on her we had a exellent crew from
the master down to the deck boy i cannot recall any arguments or
falling out amongst the crew during this time if it had not happened
for me to go home i would have rejoined her with the same crew of
course but life is not like that i made the sea my career nearly 50
years with a masters certificate under my belt so i think it was
destiny that my girl friend tripped over an anchor on the beach and
injured herself i have since found an old shipmate from that trip mr
fred honisett i have loads of photos .how could anyone forget the
samkey at tahiti on bastille day!! cheers and beers john chapman |
johnchapman38@hotmail.com
25.07.07 |
As a 21yr old I joined the Northumbreland in june 1965
in London . I stood by for 14 days then sailed on the 11 th of June
for N.Z. AS The Junior Engineer I was sea sick as soon as we got into
the channel and well into the bay of biscay.We arrived at Curasao and
took on bunkers then proceeded towards Panama. We were half way there
when at 08.30 there was an almighty thump and the deck heaved , the
alarm went off the third said get your gear on and get down below
something has happened . The balance weight had come off no 10 crank
and blew the doors 7,8,9,10 crankcases and burst a hole in the sump.
We made Colon on one engine and stopped over for two or three days .
Yanks came on and took deflections. declared no damage to the
crankshaft. because of our hold up our Chief went home on leave to
Australia. Who was his replacement non other than Chief Engineer Jim
Clark . Well he worked us like slaves all the way to N.Z. across the
pacific strippin! down that Engine. When we arrived in N.Z. life was
just as bad He worked us from 08.00-17.00 every day got so bad some
off the Engineers did a bunk for a few days We finanly ended up fully
loaded out on the breakwater at Lyttelton harbour for a few weeks ,
there was a rebellion there as well us Engineers organised a party and
invited as many girls as we could . When the booze arrived with the
fifth Engineer in a taxi along with girls the deck officers would not
let us aboard , so we just had a party on the quay, with the Captain
and the deck officers and our Chief Engineer all watching us partying
.We finanly set sail for the U.K. everything went well till a bearing
on the camshaft for one of the exhaust flaps had to be replaced as it
was a rush job it was made a bit on the tight side so rather than stop
again the Engineers had to squirt the bearing with oil every time they
passed it. I ended up doing it every two hours after my watch because
i got into a fight in the engine room with the nineth engineer for a
week in the tropics that ! was my punishment. As for the Chief no one
liked him ,but in his defence he knew his job and that Engine room ran
beautifully all the way home. We arrived home end off december.
Coasted Hull, London & Liverpool , then paid off. I have nice memories
on board the Northumberland as short a time as it was and the Company
was a smashing outfit to sail with many thanks for the memories N.Z.
Shipping Company. Ian J G W Thomson |
mcquilter1948@yahoo.co.uk
31.07.07 |
I would like to arrange a reunion of cadets who joined
MV Otaio in May 1969. I have lost touch with a couple and it would be
great to locate them again. The 'lost souls' are Bruce Hardy and Carl
(Roly) Rolaston. If anyone knows of their whereabouts it would be
great to hear from you. Gary Jones |
gary-jones@hotmail.co.uk
29.08.07 |
Just Stumbled on this amazing site while searching for
names of ships I served on in the 60's/70's.I was amused by Archie Clarks memories of the engine
failure on the "Essex". I joined the "Northumberland" as EDH in May
1965 for the HT run from Hull to Victoria Docks then signed on FG in
June for New Zealand after which the ship was expected to go on the
MANZ run.
The engine configuration was the same as the "Essex"
twin Sulzer diesels driving a single screw through electro magnetic
gearboxes. Approaching the entrance to Panama there was an almighty
bang from the engine room and the ship lost way. Eventually made it
into the harbour where a tug took us in tow. Their had been an
internal explosion in one engine. Alongside in Panama for about a week
having remaining engine overhauled for passage to NZ. Through Panama
with tug escort then 30 days at sea at a max speed of about 8 knots.
One port before Auckland to off load some cargo for an oil refinery,
then Auckland. It seemed as if about a thousand shore engineers joined
the ship and I can remember large lumps of miss-shaped metal coming up
out the engine room. Can't remember how long in Auckland but it must
have been a couple of weeks or longer. Any event sailed for sea
trials, happy days two engines and 15/16 knots. Off to Lyttleton,
approaching the berth almighty bang from the engine room. Seemed one
of the elctro arboxes had shed its drive shaft which in turn caused
the other gearbox serious damage which in turn caused the breakage of
the crankshaft in both engines.
Not being an engineer I do not have the technical
reasons.
End result tied up on a layby berth in Lyttleton for
about six or seven weeks or longer awaiting spares and undergoing
repairs.
After which we loaded a cargo for the UK/Continent as
MANZ run taken over by another company ship, arriving in Liverpool on
6th December 1965.
Despite the mechanical problems the "Northumberland"
was a super ship with a first class young crew. We were all
sorry to have to return to the UK after having expecting to be away
for a couple of years.
Happy Days.I was also on "Rangitoto" - 9/63 to 1/64 "Ruahine" 4/64 - 8/64 "Dorset" HT 9/64 - 10/64 "Whangaroa" 10/64 - 4/65 then "Northumberland"
Then working by in KGV saw Shaw Savilles "Laurentic"
arrive from her maiden voyage, liked the look of the ship, applied for
and got taken on on her and spent the remainder of my seagoing time
with Shaw Saville.
|
paul.gloyens@btopenworld.com
15.10.07 |
I have a copy of a concert programme held on board the
SS Papanui Plymouth dated 20 July 1900 with all passenger names, and
photos of officers and captain. Joy Tawhiao |
waikleen@xtra.com.au
16.10.07 |
Can you help me please? I am a retired Master Mariner,
and was taken, by my father, also a Master, in the year somewhere
about 1946-47, to Penarth Docks in South Wales, UK, to see the last
two of the fully rigged sailing ships, which were lying there, full of
grain, used by the Ministry of Food as storeships. I have looked up
the history of "PAMIR" and "PASSAT" and find reference that they were
run by New Zealand during the latter years of the war, but in the
history of the PAMIR, no mention is made of the ships being in South
Wales at that time - I seem to remember that they had to tow the ships
out into the Bristol Channel, as there were so many rats on board - I
don't know if that was true. Any light you may be able to throw on
this subject would be gratefully received. Alan C. Enos. |
alancenos@aol.com
20.10.07 |
For Alan Enos
Found this reference to Pamir in Penarth... "In 1950
two four-masted barques, the Pamir and Passat arrived outside Ranks
Mills loaded with cargoes of barley grain in sacks from Australia.
They had previously been laid up in Penarth Docks waiting for
permission to unload. During this time rats that infested the ship
took full advantage of the vast quantity of food available to them and
increased their numbers. When the ships finally arrived in Barry and
the hatch covers were taken off, it revealed a sea of rats and new
names for the ships, The Rat Ships. An appeal went out for volunteers
who owned terriers or any other dogs capable of killing rats to turn
up on the dockside. 5,000 rats were estimated to have been killed
whilst unloading the Pamir and 3,000 were gassed when the ship was
being fumigated after discharging her cargo. The Pamir left Barry
under tow for Penarth, with Capt. Hagerstrand and 12 licensed riggers
as crew, where it joined the Passat until sold for scrap. Both ships
were considered to be uneconomic! al to run. The ships were later
bought by a German shipowner who had six cylinder oil engines
installed in them. They were used until he finally sold them to the
Pamir / Passat Cadet Sail Training Association. On 21st September 1957
the Pamir, outward bound from Buenos Aires to Hamburg was lost in a
storm. Out of a crew of eighty-six, consisting mainly of cadets, there
were only six survivors. The Passat on her way to Hamburg nearly
suffered the same fate as the Pamir and took shelter in Lisbon. The
training of cadets ceased and she was sold to the city of Lubeck to be
used by nautical school at Travemunde as living quarters for its
cadets." In 1957 I was a "first trip" Engineer Cadet on the mv Hauraki
on a round the world voyage Liverpool-Cape Hope-Australia-New
Zealand-New York-Liverpool. On the the leg from Panama to New York the
Hauraki went on to "stand by" and took part in the search for the
Pamir for about two days. Len Chapman |
len.chapman@bigpond.com
27.10.07 |
Dear sir, i am a 72 year old seeking information
and hopefully a photo of the sailing vessel, Invererne chartered by NZ
shipping between 1873--1877. My great grand parents came to NZ aboard
her, leaving England [portsmouth i think ] on the 30th oct,1874,
arriving Auckland New Zealand 29th January 1875, i have tried
everywhere to get my hands on a photocopy of this vessel, i did get
some information on the net that a guy had seen a postcard of it but
did not have a copy himself, please do you have a copy in your
archives, if so i would be prepared to pay for a copy, hoping you can
help me. Regards Faye Pedersen
PS my great grand parents were Mr & Mrs George Harrison and family. |
faye.pedersen@xtra.com.au
10.11.07 |
I'm hoping to find the crew list for the MV Wanganella
that docked in Sydney May 1950. Any help or suggestions as to where i
might find this list would be greatly appreciated. Thank You Kindly Paulette Bode're |
paulettebodere@yahoo.com.au
10.11.07 |
Can anyone help me with a photo copy of the sailing
vessel Invererne, chartered by NZ Shipping between 1873-- 1878 sailing
from England to Auckland NZ thank you Faye |
faye.pedersen@xtra.com.au
10.11.07 |
Jeffrey, I have been looking for this site for years,
and found it by accident, so, for most of the past week I have been
reading all the past postings, I agree with all the correspondence,
NZSco/FSNco were a great company to work for. I left T/S Vindicatrix a
couple of months before my 16th birthday in 1960,ending up as senior
boy, was given a railway warrent to get me to Royal Albert dock,and
directions to the New Zealand Shipping co offices there. I was
assigned to the Rangitane, as stewards boy, due to sail to Auckland in
four days, so they gave me two days to get home, pack some more
clothes and say goodbye to mum for about five months. It was to be the
first trip of many, on different ships, but I had the time of my life.
The next three trips were on the old Norfolk, March 61, to January 62,
a really fine old lady, then a change to the Port Line, two trips on
Port Townsville to Australia and the far east, then back to the
Rangitane for two last trips to New Zealand, I still miss the life I
had then, but we all move on. Regards, Dick Reed |
dickreedlighting@btinternet.com
14.11.07 |
My uncle, George Stewart, originally from Lossiemouth
in Scotland worked on the Rangitata from the late thirties until about
1947. I've been rummaging around on the internet to see what I can
find out about the ship and the people who sailed on it. So far, I'm
doing fairly well, but if there's anybody out there who can help in
any way, I'd be very grateful - as will he - he's still with us, so if
anybody knew him, I'm sure he'd be pleased to hear from you.Thanks in advance, Graham Williams |
williag@wmin.ac.uk
15.11.2007 |
I am looking for crew lists from 1960 to1961 .
Rangitiki, Rangtoto, Rangitani.? Name John Newberry, Steward. Left ship
in Wellington. |
michael.thorogood@homecall.co.uk
21.11.07 |
Hello, I am wondering if anybody has any artifacts off
the Remuera? Somewhere I found photographs of some
spoons, mugs, serviette rings, even a gong type bell, all of which had
come off this ship. We own a farm called Remuera, situated in
Marlborough, New Zealand and I would be interested in purchasing
something, especially the gong, as an item of historical interest and
connected by name. thanks . Ainslie Green |
rjaegreen@clear.net.nz
21.11.07 |
Hi there in New Zealand...I was an engineer with NZSCo
from 1952-1960 sailed on Haparangi, Nottingham , Rakaia, Hororata,
Rangitoto, Dorset. Does anyone have any technical details of the Main
Engine failure on the Rakaia. Would like to hear from anyone who may
have sailed with me. Currently living in Sidmouth. Devon..UK.. {Within
site of the Napoli which grounded a year ago] Les Hawking. |
hawking@btinternet.com
14.12.07 |
Hi, A few years ago I decided to see if I could find a
couple of my old ship mates from the Norfolk, who, in 1962 had decided
to emigrate to NZ, the problem was, I couldn't remember their
surnames, a bit of research on the internet and I found that the
ship's official log books had all been transferred to Memorial
University of Newfoundland, Maritime History Archive, Saint Johns, NF
Canada, A1C 5S7.
The lady in the archive was very helpful, and for a set fee of about
$30.she sent me a photo copy of the complete ships log of the voyage.
It seems all ships logs of the British merchant fleet are now kept at
Memorial, so if anyone needs information about ships and crews, ask at
Memorial.
P.S. Have still not found my old ship mates, there names are Brian
Grimes, Possibly worked on the Union Steamship Co as steward when he
first arrived in Auckland, and Bernard (Bernie) Gardner, also went to
Auckland 1963. Many thanks, Dick Reed |
dickreedlighting@btinternet.com
18.12.07 |
I sailed in the Rangatiki sometime in late 1944/early
1945 as a young boy aged about 2, from Canada to the UK. My father,
Sgt Wilf Thompson had been an RAF Photographer based in Patricia Bay,
Vancouver, and he had been lucky enough to have my Mother sail over to
join him (in the Queen Mary). It is hard to imagine that a RAF SNCO
could have such an accompanied posting during WW2! I was born in July
1943, and my sister followed a year later. What do I know about my
voyage on the Rangatiki? Not a lot, except I recall being told many
times by my parents that, during the voyage, I managed to lock myself
in a toilet. Apparently, members of the crew had to dismantle a
bulkhead to get me out! Much later, I joined the RAF and spent many a
happy year `misbehaving` in a variety of aircraft from Shackletons to
Nimrods and Vulcans to Canberras. |
bobthompson@linc.wanadoo.co.uk
22.12.07 |
Hi., I was on the mv Durham in 1961 or there abouts as
a stewards boy i had a buddy. Robert Stockton a deck hand. lost touch
with sailed from Liverpool to Aus N/Zealand. Often wonder what old
buddys are up to now. Donovan b Shaw |
dshaw5@cogeco.ca
27.12.07 |
Hi people, I joined nzsco in 1963 on Otaio course 6 i
think as an engineer cadet, sailed on all the H boats mug me !! loved
them . got married on Huntingdon in Timaru 1970 Scott Munro ce gave us
a day off murf the surf was my best man Richard Blight any one know of
his where abouts now live in Australia between Brisbane and Canberra.
talk to me chaps Keith p |
keithpurvis@smartchat.net.au
29.12.07 |
