Are you an "Honorary Stoker", and if not, you should seriously consider becoming one...
How do you become one - when you have a turn at stoking coal on-board New Zealands only coal fired Paddle Steamer, the PS Waimarie - a unique turn of the century paddle steamer that sails the Whanganui River. (You will get a certificate to prove your worth at being a stoker)...
So what is her story? She was built in 1899 in London and transported in kitset form to Wanganui. For almost 50 years she plied the River between Whanganui and Pipiriki, navigating the rapids and carrying cargo, mail, River dwellers and tourists along this major inland highway.
In 1952 she sank at her berth in Whanganui, where she remained buried in the silt and mud of the River until 1993, whenupon she was salvaged by enthusiastic volunteers and moved into the Whanganui Riverboat Centre for restoration.
Around 100 years later, on the 1st of January 2000, the restored Waimarie was recommissioned for her new life on the Whanganui River, as New Zealand's only authentic paddle steamer.
In her first year of operation, the PS Waimarie carried over 25,000 passengers and is now a major attraction in our historic city and you can learn more here: www.riverboats.co.nz/home.
The Waimarie runs regular cruises so make sure you book your trip soon and join the club of the stokers! Been on the P.S Waimarie - we'd love to hear about it!
