My name is Alan Lucy I sailed on the mv Rangitata from Tilbury on 24/2/50 arriving wellington28/3/50 I was a child migrant aged 14yrs and was sent to a back country farm in Gisbourne within two days of reaching NZ but every thing worked out ok I would love to hear from any one on that same trip my email is amaplucy@zfree.co.nz  PS it was a wonderful voyage with great food and service on a great ship it took me years to work out why the odd! crew member had traces of make up on when serving breakfast cheers: Alan Lucy

6.01.02

Hi! my first 2 years at sea on the best name on the kiwi coast 'SOMERSET'77-79. what memories, where has the crowd gone to. I'm still swashing my buckle in the north sea. good to mention the old girl. All the best lads and a few lasses!! The Goon Pat Mccardle

10.01.02

While browsing on the net I stumbled on to your site. I was an electrician with nzsc and did three voyages on the mv Hinakura 1962-1963 and one on mv Otaki late 1963 I recall on the outward to nz the ship broke down every day between London and Curacao a nightmare for the engineers. all the engineers on this voyage were Jordies except myself and the chief electrician who were Scots. The chief electricians name was Lachie Henderson who was with nzsc and pando for many years and probably was there until retirement age. I must admit I enjoyed this part of my life and often wished I had stayed a little bit longer. Norrie Cumming.

10.01.01

Served with nzsc between 1966 -1971 and lost all photos would love to find some more on the Pipiriki Derby Clark Mackswell

Hi my name is John Broughton I am originally from Doncaster I now live in NZ. I joined M.V.Gloucester as a.b.1964 to do a m.a.n.z. run with Dick Hodge. bosun john hay,  lampy Bob Heslop. Skipper Max Hellings. then joined M.V Devon. Tekoa. bosun Tim O,leary took the Suffork to scrap 1968 also joined the Hurunui and came back d.b.s.on the Cumberland I also joined the Paparoa in Liverpool my last shipping co ship was the Westmoreland the skipper was Capt North also a m.a.n.z run hope this is off some interested and may trigger a memory or too John Broughton

15.01.02

Dear Sir, One article in your shipping info, and to inform the source, is that the Shipping Corp NZ was nothing to do with N.Z.S. I sailed on the Tue alias New Zealand Pacific which was Blue Star. Shaw Savall port line all together and Sir Tom Skinner as boss plus son Jeff not bad for job for the boys ... bit of info john

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Hi Sorry, I do not have any info for you. I am looking for information re the MV Kaimata. My father sailed on her during WWII and I would like to learn some more about her, especially any photos of her. Can you help, or point me in the right direction? Many thanks Essex Havard

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Please could you send me to a website that would give me some details about the sinking of the Rangitane in 1940. My late uncle, James Hunt, served as a steward on that ship. Any information, however little, would be greatly appreciated. Patrick Hunt Irish Independent Dublin

22.01.02

Very interesting site which I came across whilst searching for information about HMNZT Turakina which was torpedoed in the North Atlantic 13 August 1917. My Grandfather now deceased some ten years was sixth engineer. I have an original of "The Klink" a souvenir of the voyage of HMNZT "Turakina" 1917. I would be prepared to look up names and any relevant detail if needed. Peter Cornish

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Manuscript Programme of Entertainment on board the New Zealand Shipping Company Ship SS Rimutaka dated 6th May 1915

An attractive, interesting and unusual item of shipping ephemera being a manuscript programme of entertainment on board the New Zealand Shipping Company's ship S.S. Rimutaka given on the 6th of May 1915. The programme is written on an illustrated "Programme" sheet of the "Royal Albert Aged Merchant Seamen's Institute." The Captain of the vessel is named in the programme as Captain F.A. Hemming. The preamble to the programme starts "...At 8 Bells on Promenade Deck The "Reckless Rimutaka Rollickers" will toll forth and..." The first item of entertainment is entitled "Who shall kill The Kaiser" which confirms both the date and the common sentiment of the period. The programme measures 25cms x 19cms and is in very good condition.

This is the second of the three vessels to bear the name S.S. Rimutaka. Built in 1900 weighing 7,765 tons. The ship was scrapped in 1930.
Warmest regards, Philip Christian
10 Papa Panteli Michail Street, 4566 Kalo Chorio, Limassol, Cyprus

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Question -

When I served on the New Zealand Shipping Co's m/v Otaki in 1959, her dining room sported the Victoria Cross of a Captain Smith, who had served on a ship of the same name during World War 1. The second Otaki has long been broken up. Could you tell me what happened to that VC ?

This Question elicited two replies which I post here with all necessary apologies etc for any breach of copyright. 

1. As secretary to Lord Sterling, chairman of P and O, I see this medal every day, proudly displayed on the wall in his office. It is mounted as it must have been in the dining room of the last mv Otaki, where it sat alongside a portrait of Captain Smith.

It has this inscription : 'This Victoria Cross was awarded to Captain Archibald Bissett Smith. Master of the New Zealand Shipping Company vessel ss Otaki. He was was born in Aberdeen on December 19, 1878, and educated at Robert Gordon's College. He joined the Company on June 2, 1904 and was promoted Master in July 1912. he died on March 10, 1917, when in command of the ss Otaki, which was sunk in the North Atlantic after a very gallant action with the heavily armed raider 'Moewe'. The Victoria Cross was awarded posthumously to commemorate this epic of the Merchant Service'.

The New Zealand Shipping Co, a P and O subsidiary, acquired the medal by auction in 1951 and it was carried aboard it's fourth Otaki, which served from 1953 to 1975.

This is signed ; Lyn Allen, P and O SNCo, London

2) On March 10, 1917, the refrigerated meat ship Otaki, commanded by Captain Archibald Bisset Smith, sailing 350 miles east of the Azores, was sunk by the German commerce raider Moewe, but not before the Otaki's 4.7 inch gun had inflicted so much damage on the Moewe that, although able to reach Kiel, she never returned to sea. The Otaki lost six crewmen, including Captain Bisset Smith, who went down with his ship. Smith was a civilian and therefore not strictly entitled to receive the VC, so he was posthumously gazetted a lieutenant in the Royal Naval Reserve. The London Gazette of May 25th, 1919, details the award.

In 1936, the relatives of Captain Bisset Smith presented the Otaki Shield to the Governors of Robert Gordon's College, Aberdeen, where he had been educated, to be awarded annually to the scholar judged pre-eminent in character, leadership and athletics.

From 1938, the New Zealand Shipping Company added a travel scholarship in the form of a return trip to New Zealand - a tradition which continues, with P and O now providing the passage.

In March 1951, Captain Bisset Smith's VC was bought at auction by the New Zealand Shipping Company and for two years it was housed in Robert Gordons's College, but was then placed in the 'new' Otaki when it was built in 1953.

It remained in the officer's dining room until the Otaki was sold in 1975. The medal has since been in the possession of PandO, in pride of place in the office of the chairman.

Signed ; H.O. Smith, Head of Geography, Robert Gordon's College, Aberdeen

I remember in the early seventies sailing with a couple of schoolboys and two 'young farmers' signed as supernumeraries on OCL's Discovery Bay but cannot remember what school they were from.

Also, those of you interested may wish to visit the web site at friendsreunited.co.uk, where many people have signed onto the various UK nautical colleges featured in the schools section, but also many ex NZS employees in the 'Workplace' section under 'Merchant Navy', 'P and O' and two spellings of New Zealand Shipping Company. After registering an e-mail address the site is free to enter but there is a charge if you wish to contact somebody through the site.

Thank you for maintaining this excellent site. 
Colin Nisbet NZS / P and O 1973 - 1983

Editor Please note the article submitted by Colin is about New Zealand Shipping Co in its previous incarnation as part of P&O. The current company has no connection with P & O Nedlloyd although we do slot space on some trade lanes.

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Editor: That would be nice I am sure we can help people in the manner you have suggested. Ailsa web site is http://home.st.net.au/~ailsa

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Hi Ailsa, I have sailed with the old NZSCo during 1960-64 and have recently completed a model of the MV Rakaia on of the ships I sailed on. I am now starting to construct a model of the Rangatoto and have acquired the general plans from Tyne and Were Archives. I am having some trouble acquiring photographs to help me to complete the superstructure. Would you have any that you could scan and e-mail to me? If this is any trouble please do not bother.     I like your web site.    I have attached a jpg of the model I made as it might be of interest to you. Best regards. Alex Henderson 41 Island Bank Road Inverness IV2 4QT   Phone 01463 238397
Editor: click here to see Rakaia once this page opens up you will have to scroll down the page to see photo of Alex's scale model

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This is an account from the journal of Jean Cross, wife of the Master, written during the voyage in 1947.

Halifax, Sunday September 28, 1947.
I worked like mad all day to get house finished so I could leave. Keith (Morrow) came over about 7 pm to collect trunk and suitcase. I had all the boys asleep early. Cynthia (Hunter-Smith) and I finished our coffee and did the dishes and then I cleaned the kitchen and put away the final odds and sods. All clean except floor. Got coffee and sandwiches ready as Keith is to call at 2 am for us. Got the boys and Cynthia up about 1:30 am. Didn't leave until 3 am as Keith overslept and was late. Ian and Duncan slept in the car. Angus and I tried to but were too excited.

Monday, September 29th.
Arrived in Mulgrave around 8 am. We found the wharf and had breakfast in the trainmen's sleeping and eating car. The ship arrived shortly after 9 am and the seaboat picked us up right at the jetty. Everything went fine and the day was perfect, hot, sunny and calm. The boys are all happy. Partly unpacked and settled. Ian and Angus have Spark's (radio operator) old cabin. Duncan is in his basket on the settee in Fergus' room. Lots of room. I can still hardly beleive I'm here. Duncan 20 days old. Ian 14 months. Angus 5 years. What a nerve we have starting off for Australia with them all. Angus is in his element and we're all happy to be leaving. Halifax for the winter. Wonderful day but am I tired!

At sea, Tuesday, September 30th.
Cool and lovely sunny day. Calm and all well.

Wednesday, October 1st
Hot, rainy and windy - a real storm blowing up. Have to keep ports closed and so hot inside it's really suffocating. Nearly all unpacked and put away. Very rough and not very comfortable. Ian keeps falling but it doesn't bother Angus. I keep banging into the settee. Going pretty slow today.

Thursday, October 2nd.
Rain has stopped but still windy and ship rolling more than yesterday.
Everything swinging and banging. We are all eating three meals a day and its just uncomfortable trying to stand up in one spot. Ian not falling so much. He's still jealous of Fergus and roars for me all the time. Duncan no bother except for his appetite and his pants.

Off Bermuda, Friday, October 3rd.
Passed Bermuda in the distance. Saw the lights and a plane or two. Getting warmer and calmer.

Sunday, October 5th.

Hot weather now. The kids in their summer clothes again and I'm hot in summer dresses. Passed Puerto Rico, really down south now. Should reach Curacao on Tuesday. Weather good. Rains nearly every night and getting hot and humid.

Curacao, Tuesday, October 7th.
Reached Curacao this morning about 10 am. Went to Carracas Bay first and waited, and then went right into Willemstad. Grand sight. All the signs are in Dutch. Millions of ships around and a smell of oil all over. Hot as Hades. Not much air at all. Boats of all descriptions full of black men putt-putting all around us. The crew put the boat over the side and it's running to the town every little while. Angus went in and out on it all afternoon and went ashore with the boys for a beer. They took Ian one trip too up to the best hotel for a lime squash. Fergus and I slept. too hot to go ashore til later. Nearly melted away. Went in about 4:30 and looked around. Amazing sights we saw. The banana boats, like Nova Scotia fishing schooners. They tie up along one side of the street and sell their wares from there. On the other side are the stores. all little shops about 4 feet wide piled with clothes, hats, shoes, material. the proprietors sitting in a chair by the door and the front of most stores open. All black people talking Dutch, in every kind of garb. Very picturesque place.
White plaster buildings and red tile roof tops. No grass anywhere. Must have been an old volcano as everything around is old lava. I bought a sun hat, purse, and stockings. Had a couple of drinks at the big hotel. Walked over the bridge to the other side. The bridge swings across the river.
It's built on floats. The government buildings are all beautiful and there is one wide main street but the streets with all the shops are only wide enough for one car. The streets where the people live are just narrow lanes. all paved between rows of high buildings. Some people wear shoes and some don't. All the storekeepers are black or nearly black. In fact we saw hardly any white people. Everyone has new cars though of the better makes. The white people must live outside the town as we didn't see any homes at all. Went back to the ship for supper. Put the boys to bed and then went ashore again for a couple of hours. Went to the hotel for a

Collins, the Panama Canal, Friday, October 10th.
Reached canal about 10 am and got through to the Pacific side by about 5 pm. Very interesting going through the locks but the heat and humidity simply awful. Angus thought the engines that pull the ship were fascinating and watched everything. Ian was used to the black people and didn't stare like in Curacao where even the agent is black. Got a letter from Mother, none from Cynthia. Fergus got some, but no more news for a month now. Mr. Yosh, someone from Norton Lilly's came down and took us ashore about 9 pm. Drove us all over Bilboa and into Panama. Looked beautiful at night. The homes were grand. Huge - spacious, white all frame. some of course weren't so hot but it's so different and the huge palm trees and white buildings look grand. He dropped us at the International Hotel, but there were not any people dancing, just gambling, so we went across to Kelly's - a nightclub affair and had some collins and saw the floor show. Some of it good - some awful. I'd never seen strip tease before but I certainly did there. The Chief Steward and Sparks came along and sat with us. John Bostock and another engineer showed up there too. The girls aren't fussy. The old dame Kelly even had two over with some Chinese- better looking than some of the white men around - motto must be All welcome. We left there and went to El Rancho but were late and the crowd had left as it had rained and the dance floor was roofless. Had a few dances to the organ and then back to the International. still nobody there but danced anyway. coolest place since we left Canada. Really air-conditioned. Tried to go in the game rooms but the Steward and Sparks didn't have jackets so we weren't allowed. Fellow with a gun sitting at the door. Went to the El Rancho but most of the crowd was gone. Had a couple of drinks and dances on the wet floor and got a cab back to the ship. Fergus and I stopped at the ship "Northumberland", Fergus' old training ship. Captain Fred Lougheed made us very welcome and two of his passengers, Mr. Dickson, and Mr. Wellbrook came

At sea.
Coldest day yet. The day we crossed the equator. Fergus sends daily messages to "Northumberland" comparing speeds. We are doing about the same as they are.

Tuesday, October 20th.
Duncan 6 weeks old today. Weighed him on the cook's scale 12.25 pounds before his breakfast. He looks lovely now, smiles at us all the time and so big and fat and nice looking. His hair is growing and he has a sunbath every day now. Fergus wants to take him in the big bath with all the others. Angus has been back aft all afternoon. Ian and Duncan and I sat out in front, then Ian and I spent an hour in the pool. Horribly hot but nice breeze. Angus presented Chief Officer with his 2 hours overtime sheet. He got a big kick out of it. Later played crib with Sparks, Chippie, Beave. We won but not my playing that did it. I'll learn eventually. Fergus looked after the kids as the all woke up. Chief came up for a drink before bed. Talked of his experience in lifeboat during the war. Bed about 11:30

Wednesday, October 21st.
Beautiful day. Very hot and humid these days. Chippie finished Angus' dory and he has it in the water. Ian and he playing in pool. Duncan asleep here, just going to sunbathe and then a dip to cool off. Fergus still working on car. Sat out here with kids all morning. This is a wonderful change. Really enjoying the sun, rest and most of all being all together.

Thursday evening, October 22nd. 
Did I say rest? I played crib with Sparks, Holmes, and Pete Clark but we lost. Then Sparks showed me 45's again. Fergus read his book, "The Border Lord". I played 45's and asked questions. Know a bit more about it anyway.
Had a couple of lemon gins and went to bed early. The clock goes back again tonight. About 3 am. just as I was trying to get back to sleep after being up with Duncan, Fergus woke up with a horrible pain and stomach ache. The stone in his kidney again he thought. He was horribly sick the rest of the night. Nothing seemed to help much and the pain was terrible.
The kids all woke at 6:15 am. and Ian only slept about 3/4 of an hour today so we are all weary tonight. It's been a beast of a day too. The hottest since Panama and a scorcher. Fergie napped or tried to all day in between drinking lemonade and bringing it up. I tried to keep Angus and Ian in one spot and as quiet as possible. They are all asleep now, thank goodness. Just finished the washing and hung some out, had a bath and trying to cool off. Am sure pounds melted off last night and today. The fierce pain has gone but Fergus still bringing up everything, trying Bovril now. Hope he sleeps tonight and that it's moved tomorrow. we'll see a Doctor as soon as we get to Sydney, as this wasn't funny.

Friday, October, 23rd.
Fergus still not so good but think it is improving. Passed two islands today, or one last night and one today. One inhabited by 150 people and the other not. Going to stop at Tahiti if Fergus isn't better. Should be there Sunday. I have rubbed him and put hot water bottles on continuously.

Saturday, October 24th.
Passed more islands. Fergus seems a bit better. Had a mustard bath which seemed to relieve the pain some. Also started hot cloths which seem to be better than hot water bottles. Think it is getting better. Gave him more laudanum last night and he got a bit of rest. Started ordinary kidney pills which may help. He's very tired so should sleep tonight.

Sunday, October 25th.

Fergus feels much better. Thought he passed the stone today. Had a good sleep last night which helped him too. Got to Tahiti about middle of afternoon and were by it by dark. We were only 1/2 mile off so had a good look at it anyway. It's all hills and mountain peaks and passes - all wooded from this side. Supposed to be 18 miles - 4,000 inhabitants. Wish we could have stopped but very glad we didn't have to for Fergus. Couldn't see the town from here but it was good to see land again. Has been a hell of a day though. Thank goodness tomorrow will be a new day and a better one, I hope. I couldn't stand another like this.

Monday, October 26th.
Fergus better but stayed mostly in bed as it stormed all day. Rained buckets and the waves are getting bigger and rolling more all the time. Really running uphill all the while.

October 31st. Halloween
Angus and I had a Halloween Party. Dressed him in my old smock and straw-hat and purse, lipstick. He looked cute too. We made pumpkin faces for all the lights. Went and called on the Chief and John. Got a bunch of chocolate bars from each. It was raining and windy so we didn't go anywhere else. Came back and drank coke and played a few games. He was thrilled and we had fun. He misses his playmates.

Friday, November 1st.
Sewed most of the day. Still cool and cloudy most of the time. Angus was up on the bridge most of the day. Fergus finished putting the car back together so it looks like a car again. Hope it works when he tries to start it. We miss a day tomorrow, just isn't, and next day is Monday.
Still just water all around. 88 million square miles of it the Chief said. We whip right along but it is such a long way from Panama. Has been good weather all the way though and we are nearly there now. Hope we can find someone to mind the boys so I can see Australia after all this. It's good to be missing the winter at home all alone. I'm thoroughly enjoying the trip and being with Fergus most of all. Can't imagine going to sea from choice, not on a run like this, just sitting here in the middle of nowhere with time and the world going by and having no part in it. All they do is play cards in any spare time, or a game of deck quoits.

November 4th.
A beautiful day. Had a couple of rain showers but much warmer, just about right. We are near New Zealand now and should reach Sydney Saturday pm sometime. Helped Fergie with the car today, cleaning the upholstery. It didn't start today but likely will tomorrow. One of the cats had been in it and it smelled lovely, I don't think. Fergus has been playing cards and i just finished the washing. The kids are in bed and quiet , thank goodness. They keep going all day but I can stand their noise and bother with Fergus around too. At least it's not just looking after children.
They're cute though in spite of their badness and they're not really bad anyway. We really whipped along today at 15 knots. You'd never know we were moving. Three big albatross are following the ship now. The boys are all busy painting the ship, looks nice and clean again. Angus has been helping ?? up on the bridge. Yelled "Good morning Sam" to someone this morning and when I asked who he meant he said it was "Beaver's Fodder" who works up in the wheelhouse. Tonight he said one of the boys who works there is named "Ketchup". I must get some letters written before we get to Sydney. Thought I'd get lots done but haven't written one. Just been enjoying myself doing lots of nothing and liking it. I'm so glad we could come. Duncan is thriving and Ian has grown a lot too. Still has his wheeze but if it warms up it should cure us all.

Saturday, November 8th.
Arrived Sydney at 2 pm. a beautiful hot, sunny day. Went out to Clifford and Sylvia Kidd's that evening. His mother and father were there too. Had a nice evening. We went over and back on the ferry which we got at Circular Quay. They have a small apartment. The "john" outside, around the corner, but the rest very nice. Had "supper" about 10 pm and got the 12 o'clock ferry home.
Next day was very hot and we couldn't drive the car yet, so we took the ferry to Manly Beach. Left Duncan on board. Saw the sharks in the pool and the fenced in pool for swimming. Rode the ferris wheel and Angus went on the merry-go-round. Then went over to the sea promenade and beach where they surf. Looked marvelous and there were thousands there, a scorching day. Ian got something in his eye and looked awful. The ferry home was so crowded we had to stand , then took turns at one seat. Went out to Tom and Merle McGrays next evening. Took Duncan along. Their little girl Joan, stayed up all evening and played. Sydney - Melbourne - Sydney - then New Zealand Napier - Christchurch - Palmerston North - Lower Hutt - Wellington
Entertained royally everywhere. Trade Commissioners, Board of Trade, Mayors, Police Commissioners, Doctors, Agents, Mission to Seamen - everyone so friendly and happy to have a Canadian ship and family to show around their beautiful countries. Have a long list of friends made in both Australia and New Zealand.

In New Zealand - Napier for Christmas.

Friday, January 23rd., 1948
Left Lyttelton, New Zealand at 6;40 pm for Panama and home. Had a busy time as it was a short stay here. Lovely day, cooler but sunny in the afternoon. Had lovely hot weather since we arrived in Lyttelton and had 2 good swims at Summer Beach. Windy and cold when we got out to sea, and rolling quite a bit.

Saturday, January 24th.
Sunny and cool, very windy and rolling a lot. The kids stayed in all day as it was to windy and tossing to much for out on deck. Milder tonight but still rolling away. No one bothers but it is hard walking. Had Duncan up in the baby-tender all afternoon and the other two played in the room with their ca-ca's (cars) while Fergus slept.
This was the 2nd. Saturday we could have done without. Cold and windy and rolling like mad. Everything flying all over and the kids don't like it much either and were pesty all day. Played with them all afternoon but certainly glad when they went to bed. Then Angus up at 12:30 am and Ian woke from the rolling. Fergus' hat fell on Duncan and wakened him at 2:30 am and then Angus was up again. I spent most of the night getting up to them all.

Saturday - week later  
It's been windy and rough most of the week. Thursday and Friday weren't to bad and we sat out in the sun on deck in the afternoons. Fergus fixed the chair and made a couple of canvas covers and is going to make a hammock.
Started to blow again in the night and although the sun is out occasionally it's rough again and very windy. The temperature isn't so cold though, thank goodness. Had a good thunderstorm last night. Sounded like some earthquake rumbling. Made a pair of mitts and trousers for Angus this week and nearly finished knitting a pair of pants for Ian. We cut Ian's hair yesterday which improved him a lot. He talks all the time now.

First part of week Still cool and windy, not going very fast.

January 27th. to 31st.
Warming up a bit. Have the swimming pool going and sit out in the sun every afternoon and then have a swim. Fergus is making a hammock and fixing deck chairs.

February 1st.
Duncan got his first tooth or I just noticed it today. It's very up and another is nearly through. The wind slowed us up so we passed Pitcairn Island at night so we couldn't stop. All disappointed but it couldn't be helped.

February 2nd. to 7th.
Sat out in the sun and swam later. Getting a tan again. The sun is hot but a cool wind all the time which nearly blows us out of the pool. Duncan loves it too. He goes in everyday and just cried the first day. Kicks and grins and floats around.

February 9th.
Duncan 5 months today. Is nearly to big for his basket. His feet are at the end and he can almost get right out by pushing his feet on the side. Afraid he will upset it any day now. Got a burn today in the sun. The hammock is very comfy.

February 10th.
Almost finished Fergus' typing so will have to get back to my sewing. Been carving men out of chunks of wood for Angus. He likes them. Good weather. Still blowing but nice temperature. Wish it were like this when we get to Halifax.

February 11th.
Duncan has another tooth. He had a lovely swim today. He practically floats on his own. Ian and Angus are both half fish. Made more little wooden men for the kids. Finished the typing then sat and talked and drank port half the night. Didn't have a game of checkers today. First we have missed for ages. Didn't have a walk either.

February 12th.
A hell of a day from start to finish. Felt like the dickens all day and everything went wrong. The Chief came up for a drink at night. A fiasco of a day. Better not to have been and please God there won't be any more.

Friday, February 13th.
Good weather. All had a good swim today. Nice and hot, but a breeze. Getting warmer and muggier now.

February 14th.
HOT! "Friend" arrived, and how! Can hardly move and couldn't have a swim. Fergus took the kids all in and they had a good time. I went to bed from noon until 2. Helped a little. The Chief was up in the evening.

Sunday
Really getting hot and humid. Rained on and off. The boys all went swimming. Really felt sick all day. Should be better tomorrow. The Chief was in for drinks and stayed til 1:15 am. All getting tans now. Rained like mad in the evening and so hot. Engine stopped during evening.

Monday, February 16th.
Hot and still and not a breath of air and sea is calm as a pond. Stopped at noon to fix engine. Angus fished but no luck. Saw lots of flying fish and dolphins this afternoon and evening. A lovely day. All had a good swim and the boys had a "pash-pash" before bed tonight. Duncan really loves it now and squeals, laughs and kicks. He's getting huge. Moved his basket to the floor as he tips over now. He's getting a bit browner now too. Gave him a swing before bed again. He loves it.

Panama
Arrived at 5 pm at dock and left at 2am. Fergus and I went up to Mr. Yost's house for a couple of hours. Had a nice evening. She gave me a table cloth and a hankie. Both very nice and a grand change after so much sea. Winter now so weather just about right.

Sunday, Curacao
Got a car and went ashore in the afternoon. Took our bathing suits and the driver took us to big hotel and bathing beach. Left Duncan on board and we all had a good swim in the ocean. The car came back for us at 4 pm. Had the dearest bottle of beer at the bar, all the way from Holland. Drove all over the island. Saw the planes leaving from airport. Never saw so many goats before in all my life. A dry barren looking island, mostly cactus and negro huts. Left about dark. Had the same nice pilot. Had good weather all next week. Sat out in shorts until Saturday when it began to get colder and blowy.

Sunday rough and cold.

Monday, March 1st.
Arrived New York city. Temperature around 32 degrees (F) Snowed later in day but changed to rain. Called Harvey and Louise (Glover) but he was at union meetings. I couldn't go ashore as I didn't have an up to date passport, so have to go on to Saint John on ship. Called Mom and Dad from end of dock. Called Howard (Glover) next night to meet us in Saint John. He has been transferred to Halifax office (HFC- Household Finance). Told him to phone Cynthia.

Wednesday, March 3rd.
Left for Saint John. Should arrive Saturday am. Cold as Greenland, 15 degrees below F. Hope it warms up a bit. To much of a change in such a short time.

Saturday, March 6th.
Strike on in Canada. Advised to delay arrival. Wired Howard to wait until he heard from us, may go on to Halifax. Steaming around Bay of Fundy all morning waiting. Finally got word to go straight to London. So guess we have a chance to see England whether we want to or not.

Thursday, March 18th.

Had some good weather and some pretty rough. Arrived London about 7 pm. Mr. Cross waiting on dock. Very pleased to see the kids. Before Customs and all the men had left Mrs. Cross sent message in from gate. What a mix up. She came down and sat in one room, then I put the kids to bed and she sat in bedroom and Fergus and Dad in living room. Wouldn't speak to him at all. A heck of a mess. She finally left about 10:30 Fergus walked to bus with her. I made sandwiches the rest of the evening and Mr Cross stayed all night. Moved Ian to our room and Angus to Ian's bed, but he slept with Grandpa anyway.

Friday, March 19th.
Fergus in City all day. Got back to ship about 6 pm. Had kids ready and got taxi out to Loughton. Arrived 8 pm Bill and Mrs C at hospital so put kids to bed and they got home about 10:30 pm. We all had Mrs C's room and she slept in the living room.

Saturday, March 20th.
Fergus to get car at Brown's. Left early for ship and hoped to be back early. Waited all afternoon for Bill and finally got home at 5 without him. Piled kids in car and went for a drive around. Were on a hill from which you can see 7 counties. Stopped at old inn where Dickens wrote some of his works. Saw his insurance policy 1812. Inn built around maypole.
Very old and lovely. Got home and put kids to bed and got something to eat. Bill got home while we were eating. Wanted to look for Timpsons but Fergus didn't feel like going out so we sat and talked but it ended in a horrible argument. Wished we had gone out. Got to bed at 4;30 am. Plan to get up and drive to Folkestone on Sunday and see Angus on Monday as we leave on Tuesday. Got away at 1 pm. Arrived Aunt Jean's at 4:30 She was home and I guess glad to see us all. Rational at times if kept talking about outside things. Place a mess. Never saw so many locks on doors before. Left shortly after 6 and stopped at parents of old friend of Fergus. Very nice old couple and very thrilled and pleased to see us and the children. Had a good drive home. Beautiful countryside and got to Loughton at 9:30

Tuesday, March 23rd.

Left for Canada and home to Halifax. An experience to remember. Dad Cross on pier waving goodbye. Really sad.

April 8th., 1948
Met by irate company officials on arrival in Halifax. Fergus had already sent in his resignation so they couldn't fire him, but we all got to Australia and New Zealand without management consent and approval and loved it, but boy were they mad! Always regretted not bringing Mr. Cross home with us. He wanted so badly to come. Don't know how we would have managed, but would have found a way I am sure.
And now back to real life.
Jean Cross, April 9th., 1948.

Post Script by Angus

Quite the voyage for a little guy, just turned 5 years of age, on departure. I remember a few things from the trip. The donkey engines that pulled the ship through the locks of the Panama Canal.
The swimming pool the crew made for us. It was about 12' x 10', and located one deck down from the bridge on the starboard side.
Seeing the sharks in the shark pool in Sydney, Australia.
The fag/fig story.... Mom smoked and called cigarettes "fags". One day, while we were touring in the Blue Mountains of Australia, she got me to go into a shop to get her some "fags". The Aussies din't know what I was talking about and gave me a package of figs. It was a big joke.
The clean the heads story..... The old man ran a clean ship and always had the crew cleaning and polishing. One day he decided that the heads in one of the cabins needed a good clean. The crew unbolted the head and brought it out on deck so it could be washed with a steam hose. In my capacity as "junior bosun" I kept calling the Chief Engineer and demanding more pressure on the hose. Finally he had enough and maxed the pressure whereby the head broke into a bunch of pieces. I can't remember if the old man thought it was funny but myself and the crew thought it was a big joke.
I remember the dory that "Chips" made for me. Also when I we left the ship in Halifax he gave me a tank that he had made for me. It was green and had wheels and a turret that I could climb into and drive the tank. I was the envy of my friends on Vernon Street.
I guess the most memorable part of the whole thing was that I had spent so much time with the crew that I had picked up quite a remarkable vocabulary. When I went to Grade 1 at LeMarchant School that year my teacher's punishment for being bad was that you would have to sit behind the piano. I spent a lot of time behind the piano my first year of school for uttering bad words.

Angus Cross, August 10th., 2000.

SS Ottawa Valley Home Port - Montreal, Canada, Owners - MANZ Line ( Montreal Australia New Zealand Shipping Company ) Angus S. Cross

Editor: On behalf of everyone who will come to read your story, thank you. I really appreciate the time you took in reading the diary and then transferring it in to legible typing. Thank you for sharing Angus. 

10.07.02

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07.08.02

On behalf of my uncle, Frank Ellison, I am trying to locate John Thompson, originally from Bootle who sailed with Frank on the RMS Rangitane in 1940 when it was sunk by the German raider Orion in the Pacific. Also trying to locate Charlie Grant (C. H. Grant) originally from Bristol who was sunk on the Afica Star. Frank, John and Charlie were all interned in the Milag Nord POW camp in Germany until the end of the war. Any leads would be most appreciated. Trevor Bell

10.08.02

My Dad was a Master in the New Zealand Shipping Company 1961-71. He joined the Company as a cadet in 1947, He is still shouting orders down the corridor at home. I scoured his library and found 9 publications re the NZS.

1. Ships of the New Zealand Shipping Company. by Gavin McLean ISBN 0477 00015 0

2. Clipper Ship to Motor Liner. by Sydney D Waters

3. Ordeal By Sea. Sydney D Waters

4. Sailing Ships of the NZS. By Alan Bott ISBN 07134 0467 1

5 Ships in Focus. by John Clarkson and Fenton. ISBN0952117959

6. Crossed Flags. Laxon, Farquhar, Kirby and Perry ISBN 0905617 878

7. A Tale of Two Tankers. by John Russell ISBN 0953854620

8. Merchant Fleets. by Duncan Hawes ISBN 0946378 11 8

9. A Pinch of Salt. By John Agnew and John Russell. ISBN 0953854604

My Father was, and still is Captain G.W. McCathie RD* RNR Ret. He can be contacted via my Email, by colleagues and interested parties. Tom McCathie

10.08.02

Have just come across this site, what a great place Jeff. I'm afraid I don't have any information to offer, just a query. I'm researching my husband's father whom he never knew, we are trying to track the years between 1918 when he married and the 1930's when he left NZ for Australia and never returned. His name was Claude Milne, he was born in 1899 and we understand that he did his apprenticeship with NZ Shipping as an Engineer, we weren't given any dates but I assume it would have been sometime from 1918 - mid 1920's.
Would anyone be able to direct me as to where I might find the records of such an apprenticeship. Thanking you in advance. Sue Blight - Western Australia

Editor: I have a solution you can ring and set up a telephone appointment at A$50.00 for 30 minutes to 1 hour and speak with Kerry she is a gifted medium. Your husbands father will give her the details that you seek and she in turn can pass them onto you. That's provided he hasn't reincarnated back into your family which quite often happens. Her phone number is 07 3299 5588 Monday to Friday 8 am to 4 pm Australian East Coast Standard Time (no daylight saving in Qld)

11.08.02

My Grandfather emigrated to Australia in November 1910 on the Rimutaka. I am looking for any information about the ship it's living conditions ( The manifest shows food for 600 people, yet only cabins for 240 ) and possibly how much it cost for him and his family to emigrate. Any one know where i can get information on this voyage/ship? Mandy Edlin Gulley

12.08.02

I had the pleasure of sailing aboard the MV Otaio as a deck cadet from July'74 until July '75, I also sailed aboard the MV Mataura from Jan until August '76.I had a wonderful time, and even though both ships were now under the P and O GCD Banner, the feeling aboard was very much NZS.
I would be very interested in hearing from anyone who sailed aboard these vessels during this period. I went on to sail as third mate on the Container fleets ships Moreton Bay and Jervis Bay from 1978 to 1980. Many thanks for your excellent site Regards Rob Arlington.

13.08.02

Hi there My name is Ron (ZULU) Warman. While I spent most of my short ( but bizarre and would not have missed it for quids ) career in the Merchant Navy( 61 to 64)with other shipping companies my best memories are still in the short time I spent on MV Durham MV Hinakura. 
If anyone out there still remembers my contribution to having a good time then please contact me. (if I still owe them or they owe me a sub which is unlikely just forget it !)
Incidentally if anyone out there has a decent photo/pix of the MV Durham I would appreciate it. 
Congrats on a great web site and if there is a "DURHAM " Club in Australia please let me know, Cheers "ZULU " Ron Warman

14.08.02

Joined NZSCo July 1963 (Eng Schoolie - 'Otaio') left at end of Oct 1970 for Poplar until '72. Great job and cadets, great ship, great company. 
I am in touch with several old friends from those days: Peter Wright (Ch. Freezer); Bill Bain (Ch. Eng); Peter Milburn (Deck Schoolie/Mate); Charles Turner (Mate; Peter Heald (Radio); John Mitchell (Eng Schoolie); David Bissland (Eng Cadet) and recently John Boxall (Eng Cadet).
Dive time between Cumbria (UK) and Lyttelton (NZ) 2 to 3 months each year.
Have names of all the cadets and officers who served on 'Otaio' in my time and copies of the 'all's well' telegrams, plus other bits and pieces, photos, etc. Excellent web-site - well done. Jack Giles 

15.08.02

We have a swivel captains chair with the initials NZSc in a central crest. It stands on a centrally attached gold coloured iron tripod foot of what we think are dolphins. Is there any way we can trace the ship it came from. The frame of the chair is probably mahogany and there is a carved flower centrally at the back. Can you suggest how we could find out more about it? Thank alot.

21.08.02

I have nine old photographs of the M.V. Opawa's engine room that were taken by my father in 1938. If anyone is interested in them for archival purposes I will gladly e-mail them to you. Each photo has the details written on the back of it. My father, David McLeod, is still alive and we live on Vancouver Island on the west coast of Canada. David McLeod

04.09.02

Please excuse my complete lack of naval knowledge on naval matters but can somebody explain the difference between a Captain and a Master. In a previous posting I said that I was trying to find somebody from the Rangitane sunk by raiders in 1940. I am compiling a list of Rangitane crew and passengers from various sources (now standing at 80 of the original 300+) and have found a Captain Upton who was Captain and Captain Marshall who was Master. What is the difference? Trevor Bell

05.09.02

Aft main engines - looking aft between main engines from control platform builders - Harlands,

Belfastacross main eng control - view across main eng control platform. T.screw  Sulzer  2str  bl/inj s/chgd

Main Engine tops - main engine tops (from w/shop door) looking aft

I hope you find these photos satisfactory.

Dave McLeod
Comox, BC

Editor: We have set the photos up on Opawa 1931 - 42 you can click or just scroll back up the page, look in the left hand margin and click photos of New Zealand Shipping

I have just found your site, its great, took me back years when reading about the Rangi Ships. My late husband was a "boy" on the Pamir on trips 3 and 4 when she sailed out of Wellington. What a wonderful job you have done keeping this all together Regards June Evans

10.09.02

Where can I find the ships of the union steamship co, in ww2 Dave Evans

Hi I just found your site a couple of days ago. The best trips of my short career were aboard the "Hertford" March to July 1961 and "Wharanui" Oct.'61 to Apr.'63. I still have the Wharanui's Track Chart for the Auckland to Norfolk Va, USA leg. Keep up the good work. Michael (Mick) Taylor

15.09.02

Hello, Frank McKay here. I sailed on NZS Ships under the guise of Pand O GCD.

"TEKOA" 1972 UK to South America (E. Coast) with, if memory serves, Capt. Fred Angus, Ch. Eng Paddy McClurg, 2/Eng Duncan McLarty, 3/Eng Malcolm (Tot) Scott, 4/E Harry (Mary) Baker, etc. Then.......

"HUNTINGDON" - U.K. Coastal in '74. Followed by a long, long, time on .......

"SOMERSET" - June '74 to Jan '76 - too many names to mention.

I have a reasonable scanned photo of the Somerset - would it be possible to upload for this site ?

Greetings to any old (and not-so-old) shipmates who may read this. Frank McKay

24.09.02

Thanks for your reply, Here is the photo (reduced in size for the web) of the Somerset for the site. Keep up the good work. Nostalgia ain't what it used to be ! Frank McKay

what became of the TURAKINA which was built in 1960, transfered to Federal Line in 1973 and later sold to P and O ?

Worked on the Hauraki 1969. Wellington to London. New Zealand shipping company. Purchased by P and O. Any information on this please. Regards Stephen Vickers

In October of 1944 I sailed along with 1200 others on board the SS Rangitata from New York to Liverpool. The only persons I remember were Vivien Leigh's daughter whose name I have forgotten and a chap by the name of Clive Baxter and his sister, Meribah whose father was Beverly Baxter a well known journalist who worked for Lord Beaverbrook. I am hoping to find somebody "out there" who might have been on that same voage ? We were in a convoy of 120 ships to begin with and it took us three weeks to get from New York to Liverpool via the Azores. Cheers ! Graeme Roberts Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

15.10.02

Essex Havard re M. V. Kaimata. Have attempted to contact you on several occasions but messages are being rejected. Sid Le Quesne. 

My grandfather, Charles William Erwood, was a ship's steward who, I am led to understand, sailed regularly between Britain and New Zealand until he ended up living in New Zealand in 1914. In 1936, at the age of 44, he is believed to have resumed his career in the merchant navy. Does his name ring a bell with anyone ? Sally Erwood-Carryer

18.10.02

I served on the Northumberland from march 1964 to may 1965.I was a junior engineer. 
I have been looking for a web page on N.Z.S co for a while now and stumbled across this one by accident and I am so glad I did. It's a beaut set up.
I left the N.Z.S in 66 and worked ashore for 10 years..
Got itchy feet and joined the Australian Merchant Navy.
Retired in 1992.Looking for any old ship mates including Bob Fisher, Len Byford, Don Mckenzie, and Ewan Cunningham and anyone else that was there, I would love to hear from them.
At the time my nickname was pepi.

Regards Peter McManus 

22.10.02

This letter was from son Robert Smith to his father, WAW Smith after returning to England from Waipawa. Typed by Kevin Breyley-Smith (descendant of WAW) from a handwritten transcript by Graeme Lawrence, (WAW descendant), who discovered the letter in a biscuit tin, in the outside laundry along with other correspondence between members of the legal first family of W.A.W. Smith and the bigamously achieved second family in New Zealand. 

The recipient Dear Sir, Our Father, (William A.W. Smith) had disappeared, having left London in 1853, arriving in Geelong on February 14, 1854, as navigator aboard the Phoenix. He disappeared without trace for many years. The family believed him dead until by an incredible fluke, a new arrival on a West Australian railway construction who had met W.A.W. Smith in New Zealand, bumped into his nephew, giving him the incredible news that his grandfather was alive in Waipawa. He wrote home informing the family of his discovery. William Smith’s son Robert travelled out by steamer, caught the train to Waipawa and found that it was, to his amazement, so. His father had sailed to New Zealand 42 years before whereas now Robert was able to use publicly available transport from door to door: train, steamer and train from, London, to Waipawa. Robert had been a boy when his father had left the London quayside for three years to “redeem all that has been sacrificed for me”. His father recognised him and acknowledged him as his son. This transcript is an account of Robert’s voyage home.  
14 Lee Street
Plumstead
England
17the June 1887

Dear Sir, Our Father,

I hope you learned of the safe arrival of the Aorangi at Rio de Janeiro and Plymouth through the medium of your newspapers, and hence my reaching England. There was nothing of any moment to note of the voyage beyond the fogs, damp and icebergs, till we rounded Cape Horn and passed the Falklands, one of which we saw quite plainly. The harbour of Rio we made about 3 pm on our twenty-first day and I went ashore with some of our passengers but was too late for the celebrated Botanical Gardens and the Grand Grove of Palm Trees. I had dinner and walked about the ten till past 10 pm, and then off to the ship. Next morning I had a bad headache and vomited a little and was altogether too ill to keep up the departure let alone to go ashore again in the morning as intended. By tea time I was able to take a cup of tea and so got right again. Not so however a very large number of our passengers and officers to the Captain to some of the stewards who all had a turn of vomit and cramps keeping the Doctor well in practice. This lasted with some for nearly a fortnight. The Second Officer said half of us would have had the fever if we had stayed there another day. So after all I came off very well. All through the tropics we had the good fortune of a slight breeze against us which did not help our running but kept us cooler than we should otherwise have been and as it increased in force as we neared Europe, our running came under three hundred miles a day for the first time during the voyage till we sighted Cape Finnisterre and finally the Eddystone Light about half-past eleven p.m. on Saturday night, thirty-seven days out from Wellington. That was another splendid run for our ship, she, beating the Ionic by nearly three days. Our run up the Channel was very unpleasant in foggy weather and half a gale blowing the fog becoming so thick that we dropped anchor off Dumferness (?) till break of day completing our journey up to the docks through nasty drizzling rain and I reached home to find my wife and family reasonably well taking all things into consideration. My wife has, however, since my arrival, brought another son to my already far too large a family. Unfortunately I have not got anything to do , neither do I see much prospect of obtaining any. The country is excited over that old humbug of a Gladstone and his Irish measures, which has forced on another election and causes a general upset to most business. Sarah called on me a day or two after I was home and I gave her one of your photos I brought home and we had a chat about you. But I did not give a graphic account of all and recommended her to go over to see you. That  suggestion I am afraid will never be acted upon but she would not mind paying a share of the expenses if I had brought you to the old country so she said. Haywood I have not seen for three weeks and I think it rather strange as I then called upon him. I was very sorry to hear of the volcanic disturbance with the loss of life [the Tarawa Eruption – June 10th 1886] and am afraid you at Waipawa must have experienced some of its effects. But I earnestly hope without any ill effects.  I want to send you a photo of myself and wife but her’s and the weather’s condition do not permit. That however is in the future and perhaps I may bring it with me if I leave here for N.Z. at the end of August as I shall in all probability do unless I get into a job of some sort. So if you can suggest something by the time I reach there it may be acceptable. And now as my paper is very short I must quietly close. With the very best wished for you and yours at the antipodes. Sincerely hoping that health may be spared you – Peace be with you and prosperity attend you and your new family’s every effort. With the kindness of thoughts and wishes for all your new children from one of the old. And remembrance to Mr. Ben Johnson, Mr. Jull, the Station Master, the porter, also Mr. Quinlan, {?} auctioneer, Mr Britten the butcher and every other one I may have made acquaintance with during my short stay at Waipawa. Hoping ultimately to see you again, I am your Loving Son, Robert    

Dear Jeffrey,

Thank-you for your response. I just want people to enjoy the wonderful glimpse into the past of the voyage of my grandfather's half-brother, seeking his bigamous and disappeared father. If you think it's a good idea I will further improve the context of this letter for you but I am sending it now so you can see it and post it on the site. Regards, Kevin Breyley-Smith

5.11.02

How is it, that I can remember my first trip to sea but absolutely nothing of my last ?.

I joined the M.V.Suffolk at Gladstone dock, Liverpool in August 1957 as Junior Engineer, I can remember going up the gang plank as if it were yesterday; an old docker passed me as I was going on board and asked if I was sailing on her, when I said I was, he remarked that he wished that he was.

We sailed for Auckland a few days later, the Chief Eng. was Jones, 2nd was Mullen a Geordie who told me straight away that he didn't like Scousers, 3rd was Humphrey's from Cardiff, I believe, the 4th was George Mac from Barrow and the 5th was big Ernie another Geordie. The rest of us Juniors included Bob from Glasgow, 'Kiwi'John Macnamara who taught us the Haka: Jimmy Quinn from Clydebank and Kenny Latimer from Annan. Other lads I remember were Spike the Radio and Allister Campbell the 3rd Elect. Also Ben Bernard the 2nd Fridge Eng., the only other one besides myself from Liverpool.

I survived the first few weeks but after sea sickness and doing a hammer test in one of main engines, crank cases at Curacao it was a near do. Finally we arrived in Auckland and berthed at Jericho wharf, miles from anywhere.

We stayed in Auckland for about 6 weeks before sailing to Wellington and then New Plymouth ( I was absolutely fascinated at the sight of Mount Egmont) from there we went to Opua in the Bay of Islands the first large vessel to go there since before W.W.2 We had fine time there, a great party at the Harbour Masters house was particularly remembered also a trip around the Bay in a pleasure boat was fantastic. Our visit to Opua was recorded in the Auckland Weekly News with lots of pictures,I  had a copy of it until recently but I am afraid it did not survive a house move.

Later that trip we called in to Napier and Bluff were I was transferred to the fridge as 3rd Fridge Eng. and in this elevated capacity we sailed back to London just in time to encounter the Dock strike, swinging off the hook at Southend for about two weeks waiting to go in.

I stayed on the Suffolk for two more trips in between spending some great months laid-up in the Fal by the King Harry ferry. I then sailed one trip on the Rangitata and then did a 12 month stint on the Whakatane as 3rd Eng.

After this I joined Cunard, got married got my 2nd's ticket and sailed on the Carinthia, Queen Elizabeth, Brescia and eventually the Samaria which had an Air-conditioned control room from which you maneuvered the engine with small keys not like the great huge lever's that we had on the Suffolk

My name is Frank Kennedy and I would be absolutely delighted if any one remembers me and gets in touch via E mail.

6 .11.02

I was on the Toto from 1959-1961, utility steward then stewards messman with other taff John Everson, memories now, written as they come to mind....Capt. I W.Fulcher, extra second Don Bagley, Arthur the Captains Tiger, Danny Mc Gee, Brian Lofty hall 2nd butcher, Larry the linen steward, Felicity, horse face the baker who was glassed in Tahiti, so many of them....Tahiti when they were making the film..mutiny on the bounty along with Freddy from Southend and Canada. I was in the car with Trevor Howard the film star and the island police arrested us after he had banged into lots of parked cars in his drunken state and we went for a ride with him....enough reminiscing.. if any body remembers please get in touch.. Dai (Taff) Richards

7.11.02

I was a cadet on the Rakaia from 1961 to 1964, and I have just acquired a painting of the Rakaia leaving Nelson by Robert G Lloyd.
I am thinking of putting together a book on life aboard the NZSCo Cadet Ships, and so I would be delighted to receive any anecdotes from those who sailed on the Durham, Otaio and Rakaia. 
I have already received some encouragement from members of the Durham association, including the Secretary, Des Jones, for my idea of producing a book of anecdotes about life aboard the cadet ships, and so I would very much appreciate using your web site as means for obtaining some of these. Paul Wood

8.11.02

Is there any way I can find a passenger list from m.v. Ruahine which sailed from Kings Cross, England in 1915. My mother was on it and I would like to search of how many family members came with her. She was a child of 4 and is now 92. Thank you for your help

9.11.02

Can anyone please provide me with technical information about the main engine on the M.V. Rakaia? My research so far shows that it was a 2 cycle double acting Burmeister and Wain type engine with 8 cylinders with a bore of 550 mm and a stroke of 1200 + 400 mm. It was apparently started by compressed air, and it had a BHP of 7500 at 115 rpm.
As a cadet on Rakaia, I remember being fascinated by this engine every time I was allowed into the engine room - usually when I acted as Carpenter's Mate.
However, all my attempts at finding pictures of this or a similar engine together with details of its construction have led no where. I would much appreciate help on this. Paul Wood

12.11.02

16.11.02

Hi my name is Peter Ellerton from Darlington Co Durham and i sailed on the Rangitoto during 1964 from the Royal Albert docks London. I made friends with John the kiwi and Ian Wilson from Lanarkshire Scotland. We had some great times but the second engineer didn't seem to like people from up north so he gave us a hard time. I once remember that when in the tropics he had the three of us dress in our blues and find in the engine room the oil pressure release valve we found it just before we were about to collapse with heat .It would be nice to hear from engineers on the Rangitoto at this time, i still have some memorabilia of the ship and some old dinner menus.

Editor .. No email address was sent with this email. Perhaps Peter if you get around to reading this .. you will revert with details

15.11.02

I'm hoping for some or any information on a ship called Karhu, it had an altercation with another ship called the Pacific Liberty. The time would have been around 1944. My father who has now passed away was from New Zealand and stayed in Australia when the ship came into port. The reason I'm asking is that we have no history of dad and would love to trace his family and travel over to meet them. A long shot is he lived in Wonganuoi near the brick works and his name ( Donald Thorpe ) Regards Scott Thorpe

Editor Scott could be referring to Wanganui and this email he gave us doesn't work  ScottThopre@bhp.com.au 

23.11.02

Further to my previous postings, I have started a simple web site telling the story of the RMS Rangitane and the events leading up to and after her sinking by German raiders in 1940. Also on the site is a complete crew and passenger list compiled from a number of sources. I would be grateful for any feedback to add to, or correct, anything on the site. http://www.thebells.btinternet.co.uk/rangitane/
Trevor Bell

29.11.02

I Have a small sailor type doll that was given to me by my fathers cousin who sailed on or traveled on M V RANGITOTO.
The doll is dressed in sailor clothes with the name of the ship on its hat.
My fathers cousins name was Geoff Burdett (des) he was from the north of England but settled in New Zealand. Any information about the doll or Geoffs family would be welcome. D Archer

3.12.02

Hi All. I am trying to find a passenger list (or passenger lists!) for the Ruahine. My family arrived on it from the UK somewhere between 1923-1926. A couple of other people are interested in receiving this information also, if anyone can help it will be sincerely appreciated. Cheers, AnnaLiese Bishop.

6.12.02

I sailed with NZS co 1968 - Sussex, 1969 - Nottingham,1970 - Huntingdon as engineer any body from that time drop a line. Ian Masson, George Mason 4/e re-Sussex, Jed Toman re-Nottingham. Barry Stovold

7.12.02

Dear Jeffrey Shaw, I have discovered and read through your amazing site. I especially liked the extracts describing life on the voyage out to New Zealand by Jean Cross and the wonderful letter from Robert Smith to his father.
My query relates to my great grandmother, Jane Elliott (formerly Burge) who was a stewardess on the New Zealand Steamship Co carrying passengers around the turn of the century. Her mother-in-law was Elizabeth Vestey and I wonder if that could be how she landed her job?
I am researching my family history and can only do this through documents, Regards Gail Hennessy.

9.12.02

I am trying to trace anyone who may have known my father, Kennedy Smith (Kenny), who worked for the NZSCo between 1960 and 1962. His log no. was R733842. I am particularly keen to contact anyone who may have sailed with him whilst on Christmas island. If you have any memories of him at all I would be very grateful if you would get in touch with me. Callum Smith

9.12.02

My grandfather - Archibald Hamilton Ryley CBE was a captain at the NZ shipping Company. According to my father, he was the first person to ride a motor bike in New Zealand when he rode it off the ship he was skipping onto the dock at Wellington. He retired in 1920 and joined Trinity House who run UK's lighthouses. If anyone has any info about AH Ryley please email me on john.ryley@BskyB.com. Thanks John Ryley

14.12.02

My father, Thomas Arthur Edwards (originally from Cardiff) was a chef on board the Rangitiki (& Rangitata?) before and during the war. He used to call in at Liverpool and met my mother there (she was working at the Littlewoods pools building plotting shipping movements and the fates of their sailors during the war). He never told his shipmates he was going out with a Liverpool girl as so many of the crew were fleeced by scouse prostitutes Liverpool girls were not generally liked.

He was lucky in that one of the ships he was supposed to sail on was torpedoed with great loss of life in one of the convoys, but he had swapped his place on board with another sailor so he could spend a few more days in Liverpool.

He always said New Zealand was the part of the world he would like to have lived in apart from the UK but never got to live there because I was born in 1946 and it was round about then he got the ultimatum "It's the sea or me!"

Tom used to say that "It always pays to keep in with the cook" illustrating this with tales of how the crew used to come to the galley door to get a warm (& maybe a bit of extra grub). I think he was involved in baking bread or vegetables rather than haut cuisine. One major bloomer he used to mention was when someone put enough rice for everyone in the pot, forgetting it would swell up. It made enough rice for several days in one go!!

On leaving the sea he became a master butcher after volunteering to work for a Mr Maudsley for a week for free and if he was no good then he'd move on willingly. He used to buy much of his meat from the market from Weddells - a name that crops up several times in the NZSC history.

My father died in the mid 1980's and I doubt if there are many folk out there who sailed with him but my mother & I would be interested to hear if anyone does remember him or the person he swapped with.

I must finish by saying what a great site you've got going here.

John Edwards, Solihull, England

17.12.02

Thanks very much. your website is excellent. Ive now found that his first command was the Papanui in 1909 and his last in 1920 was the Kent in the federal service. John Ryley

Hello shipping friends, to 12, November 1939 the sailing Ship JOHN & WINTHROP 319 BRT/1876 build (the union Steamship company of New Zealand ) and an unknown number of other ships in the I Tamar River on Iceland Tamar blown up.

Question: Why these ships were blown up and sunk which other ships was still blown up.
Greetings from Germany

Th. Dorgeist

19.12.02

Hi to all ex. NZS employee's. I served with nzs from 1970-74 on the Huntington, Sussex Tongerio, and many others as Freezer Eng. I am after some information, as to the ships that were used, as Mother Ships to the Russian Trawlers lying off Newfoundland. Taking on frozen fish, and taking the cargo to a Baltic Port ? Good to see this page, brings back many great memories, to the best days of my life. Regards Nick Clark

28.12.02

Re John Griffiths 14/07/02 missing info. The Liberty ship Samkey was renamed the Leicester and in the summer of 1948 sailed for New York from England and ran into a hurricane and was abandoned (with the loss of six lives) in mid-atlantic. Captain Lawson I think lived in the Lythe Valley near Kendal. Best info I have found is in a novel by Farley Mowat, a gregarious character who comes from the Rock (Newfoundland) who is not unknown as an entertainer, to turn his back upon the audience and raise his kilt!

The Book you should look for on the Leicester is: THE SERPENTS'S COIL by Farley Mowat, published by Ballantine Books, New York No. 23828 (1961) Library of Congress Catalog Card number 62-9543 SBN 345-23828-1-125

I believe it was as a result of this tragedy that all nzsco ships initiated a two radio officer policy on what was originally single operator ships, until austerity set in, I think in the early sixties.

A further Book which may be of interest by the same author GREY SEAS UNDER by Farley Mowat Ballantine Books Library of congress catalog Card Number 58-11440 SBN 345-23784-6-125

Mike Parker

29.12.02

1941 - MV Sussex. Captain P.B. Clark(e) Arrived at Liverpool loaded. At Sanford Dock attacked and shed of meat spoiled. Ship OK. Early Summer. Loaded up and sailed out, passed Northern Ireland passed Iceland and New Foundland - Arrived at Curacao, no room inside at Willemmstad. Took outside loading of Oil. To Colon and Christabel - through Panama Canal to Balboa. Left took approx 17days for first sight of the three Kings of the toe of NZ. Into Auckland At the Awettea (?) Key, bottom of Queen St. To Wellington. There for a month as they put her into dry dock and steam cleaned. Of in the evening to Napier, Hawkes Bay. One week in and a few days out for loading. 8 days South and East to within 100 miles of the South American coast - WHY? As PB Clark told us aft, " Gentlemen, there are raiders operating in the Pacific, but the British Navy is there." In fact it was Q ships out of the Galapagos. Arrived at Balboa waiting in line to go through the Canal. Upset as two Japanese ships loaded with pig iron and concrete were holding up the parade. US troops were all over the canal- they were held back, Note the date ( September 1941) Very rough seas across the Atlantic saved us from Submarines.

Written by Leonard F. Cobb. Galley Boy ( 17yrs old.) Great ship - great crew. Proud to have served. After into RAF 5 odd years. Len

30.12.02

Hi, My name is Bill Harman I sailed on deck with NZSCo From 1969 [last trip of the Rangitoto] till 1972 when I jumped the Otaki, in between I was on Paparoa, Somerset,and Cumberland, I would like to hear from anyone I knew from those days.A couple of names that spring to mind are .Pete Woods & Angus Smith, Thanks, great site Bill Harman

31.12.02