PS Waimarie
A coal-fired paddle steamer built in 1899 that sank into the river bed for half a century. After restoration, it carries passengers back up the Whanganui River.
The PS Waimarie was built in England in 1899, shipped to New Zealand in pieces, and assembled there. It was once the main workhorse of Whanganui River shipping, running between the city and the upstream town of Pīpīriki on the “Rhine of New Zealand” route. It sank at its moorings in 1952, and was not raised by volunteers until the 1990s. After years of restoration, it resumed service in 2000 and is the only coal-fired paddle steamer still operating in New Zealand. Trips of about 2 hours leave from the River Explorer Centre in the city center and head upstream, with a chance to visit the wheelhouse and engine room. The river centre also has a small maritime museum. Sailings are seasonal, so check ahead or book in advance.
Opening hours
Seasonal schedule (check the official website)
Nearby sights
- Whanganui River Traders Market
- New Zealand Glassworks
- Durie Hill Elevator & War Memorial Tower
- Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua Whanganui
- Whanganui Regional Museum
- St Paul's Memorial Church, Putiki
- Virginia Lake Reserve
- Bason Botanic Gardens