Paddle Steamer Waimarie is New Zealand’s only operational coal fired paddle steamer. She was built in 1899 by Yarrow & Co. Shipbuilders, London and shipped in kit form to New Zealand’s North Island to operate on the Whanganui River. Originally named Aotea, she sank at her moorings in 1952 and lay at the bottom of the Whanganui River for the next 40 years. Volunteers raised her in 1993 and, following a six year restoration, returned Waimarie to service in 2000. Donald McGhee, originally from Rothesay, is Waimarie’s senior skipper. You can read more about Waimarie on the Paddle Steamer Waimarie website here.

Jamie Shedden, who also hails from Rothesay, kindly sent the following pictures of Waimarie during the Vintage Jazz Festival held on 24th January 2021.