|
Comments for the year
2014 |
Email / Date |
|
I sailed on the Mataura in the early
70s, later the Tekoa and Westmorland as 4th Eng/3rd Eng and
2nd Eng before joining the Bulk Ships and later Maersk as
CEO. Great days - great memories - great bunch of lads.
Kevin Donoghue
|
j.donoghueatsky.com
03.01.14 |
|
Although my seagoing career commenced
with British India after the "October revolution" the
opportunity to sample other vessels in the GCD fleet brought
me to an 8 months stint on Otaki 1973/1974 and coasting
Essex from Newport to Liverpool both memorable, a excellent
crowd good shipmates under trying conditions. Keith Walker
|
keith_walker49athotmail.com
11.01.14 |
|
Dear
Sir/Madam,
My name
is Bart Dirkse from Holland and I sailed with my father,
mother and brother in December 1951 from Willemstad
(Curacao) to London with motor vessel "Rangitane" of your
Shipping company. We had a good time aboard the ship! Yours
sincerely, Bart Dirkse van den Heuvel
|
dirksevdheuvelatgmail.com
18.01.14 |
|
Can anyone throw any light
on a voyage of the HURUNI which left Liverpool March 1963 light
ship for NZ via Galveston. Master was Calcutt. Looking for names
of other deck and engineer officers. David Slade was my 2nd
frig. eng. A good shipmate. A copy of the obligatory pre voyage
photo would be much appreciated. Jack Cotter |
papanui1atbigpond.com
03.02.14 |
|
Editor: Received and loaded up Fred
Thompson's 2 photos on the Papanui showing the ceremony they
performed when they crossed the date line in 1959. |
04.02.14 |
|
My dad, Joe Reilly, left Liverpool in
July 1965 on the Hororata. They sailed right around the
world, returning to Liverpool in December 1965. I was 5
years old. He is still alive, 88 years old. He was 43 years
at sea. He has had an amazing life. Does anyone out there
remember him. In the early fifties before he married my Ma
he worked on a ship called the Springfinch or the
Springfjord between Galvaston and Havana. He also worked on
a ship called the Moto between England and Igarka in
Siberia. These are just some of the ships names I remember.
In WW2 he served on a destroyer called the Matchless, he was
on a landing craft at D-Day and he ended up on the aircraft
carrier called the Formidable. John Reilly
|
john.reilly34atyahoo.co.uk
06.02.14 |
|
Hi I'm trying to make contact with anyone
who worked in the deck dept on RMS Ruahine, RMS Rangitane or MV
Turakina between1966 /68. Ray Elder |
elder1844atbtinternet.com
12.02.14 |
|
I served as a seaman on the M/V Sussex and
M/V Nottingham in the early sixty's Ian Mason |
ian@otham.plus.com
15.02.14 |
|
I note the name Fred Thompson. I sailed
with a 2nd Freezer on the Rangitane in '62/'63. We had a
Chief Freezer called Jack Hill who was a source of much
amusement. Wondering if it's the same Fred? Trevor Inman
|
treatiatbigpond.com
17.02.14 |
|
I sailed on the Hertford, Tekoa, Sussex
and Tongario, as Chief Fridge in the early 70s left for
shore side but sea life was the one of the best chapters of
my life, we were all the same, no politics or bullshit, but
moved in the Corporate Life and ended up as CEO of
International Companies across the world, now retired and
have a new career as a writer my books are "The Baltic
Triangle" "Deadly States" & "Angels of Deceit", Nicholas
Clark
|
nicholasclarkukatyahoo.co.uk
17.02.14 |
|
S.S. Hororata, My uncle was a crew
member on this ship when it was torpedoed in 1943. It didn't
sink but managed to get to limp to the Azores where it was
secretly repaired. As far as the Germans were concerned it
had sunk so everything was kept hush-hush. My Grannie
thought Uncle John had died. I do have a newspaper cutting
that's been handed down if you wish anymore information.
Angela Lewington
Editor: I am sure everybody would enjoy reading the
article Angela
|
angelalewingtonathotmail.com
19.02.14 |
Hi Jeff, I
made a mistake with the " crossing the line" photos. I said they
were of the Pap. I forgot there were two Paps. The Paparoa & the
Papanui, the photos were of the Paparoa, sorry. In reply to
Trevor Inman's query, yes I was the one. 2nd Freezer on the 'Tane
and under study to the one and only Jack Hill !?*#. I don't know
how I survived that trip. I think I was sacked 5 times by Jack
for things ranging from the runners in the freezer compartment
weren't straight to why I hadn't filled in his log for his
watch. Funny fella. Cheers Fred Thompson.
Editor: Fixed |
ft_musicathotmail.com 07.03.14 |
|
Looking for information on my wife's
grandfather James Adams a Steward on board M.S. Rangitane sunk
by German Surface Raider. He apparently died at sea. He is
mentioned in the book "Ordeal by Sea". Denis W. Reid |
reidd16atsky.com
13.03.14 |
|
I have just found and scanned a formal
(uniform) picture of some of the officers from the Sussex.
The pic was taken somewhere in either NZ or Aus, can't
remember which.
If you would like it let me know and i
will send it to you. Graham Perkins
|
grahamperkinsatinternode.on.net
14.03.14 |
|
Editor: Have loaded Grahams photos
on the Sussex for all to see, thank you Graham for sharing. |
17.03.14 |
|
I'm looking for photo's of mv Hertford
(1948) mv Mataura (1968) and the wild flamingo (1972)? many
thanks to whoever can help Richard Mitchell
|
richard.mitchell455atbtinternet.com
25.03.14 |
|
An excellent website. Deck cadet on
Otaio 1969 to 1972 then Cumberland 1972, Essex '73/74.
Tongariro '76/77 plus other P&O in between and after until
1980 then joined Sealink UK at Dover.
Remember Essex with affection
particularly rigging a canvas sail and sailing backwards off
the Galapagos for four days on way out to NZ!! Voyage 39S I
think.
|
ian.cooksonatbtinternet.com
03.04.14 |
|
I sailed on the Otaki 1969
,first trip to sea catering boy, the trip we rescued the crew of
the Greek freighter and Anastasia, which had broken it's back in
the great Australian bight. dropped the crew off in Geelong,
great trip great crew, and the next year sailed on the Piako,
best trip to sea with the best shipping company bar none. Best
years of my life, god bless to all the crews of those times. Ray
Watson |
blencathra2atbigpond.com
07.04.14 |
|
Junior Engineer M.V.Northumberland 1965
I read HAYDEN THOMAS 11-01-12 with interest
there was indeed an Engine disaster off the coast of Columbia as
we were heading for the Panama Canal. I was on the deck just
after 08.00 when there was a grumble and the deck heaved the
third engineer was there as well, all he'll broke loose alarm
bells every where going off. The third engineer flung his cup
over the side said to me get your boiler suit on and get down to
the engine room and ran for the accommodation as there was an
emergency below. The seventh engineer had been taking his log
readings between the SULZER engines and was just back at the
controls when the balance weight came off number 8 crank shaft
the doors off,7.8.9.crankcase flew off, sump got bust it was
lucky it was at watch change over and the second was standing at
the controls he shut both engines down by the time I got down
the second had restarted the port engine. We then made our way
to Colon. We were there three days and as usual we pulled a
Piston, I was standing on top of a Piston grinding the lip of
the liner when a voice shouted I HOPE THE F--- YOU KNOW WHAT
YOUR DOING. I took off my mask and goggles to see who was
shouting at me that's how I met chief engineer JIM CLARK. Hayden
must have joined when I paid off at Liverpool. Ian Thomson |
ian.thomson44atntlworld.com
27.04.14 |
|
My father was crew on several ships
around 1960 to 1969ish, I know he was on the Pipiriki & the
Rangitata but I cannot remember the third ship. I am trying
to find if there are any crew lists available, and even
better if there were crew photo's which may show him on.
unfortunately my father passed away in July 2012. I was
trying to find information even before he died but never got
anywhere, it has now become hopefully me mission to find
something. Hope you can help or point me in the right
direction. Regards, Gary Perkins
|
gary.perkinsatparkinsons.co.uk
16.05.14 |
My father was an Engineer on the "Turakina"
mid-1920s. I have a number of photos of the ship, officers,
engine room, live horse and dog cargoes and the ship's cat. I
would be happy to share these with anyone interested. Ivan
Learmouth
Editor: Ivan if you would like to scan your photos and
save them as a jpeg file and email to me I will put them up on
the Turakina page. Can you let me know your fathers name so we
can acknowledge his contribution. |
ivan.learmouthattesco.net
20.05.14 |
On the photo page for the Remuera the names
below the lifeboat photo at the Everglades should read Albert
Britain Andy Ross & Grant Wallace. Also it would me much
appreciated if anyone has a Remuera crew photo of that period
that they would be prepared to share. Ken Crackett
Editor: Fixed the names |
ken_crackettatbtinternet.com
20.05.14 |
|
Junior engineer MV NORTHUMBERLAND.
1965.
Continuing the story about the engine
disaster when I joined the NZ COMPANY at the Victoria &
Albert docks London, on June 1st 1965 there was a guy
already in the office, I was apprehensive, but the guy
started to talk to me which put me at ease, the one
outstanding thing that I remember, was that he had lost a
finger on one off his hands, which one I can't remember. He
asked me was I joining NZ. I replied yes, he then said he
was leaving the company and was going back to NZ to his girl
friend he wished me good luck and said I was joining at
great company. We then parted and went our ways, you may
wonder what I am going on about, well after the engine
disaster the yanks from the dock yard in Colon took
deflection of the Starboard engine and declared there had
been no damage to the crank shaft.
The rumour was the old man was given
the option of going to GALSTON TEXAS for repairs. Jim Clark
joined at Colon as already stated, we set out through the
Panama Canal and onwards towards NZ. Across the Pacific on
one engine, we work extra hours stripping the damaged engine
down and might as well say it big Jim worked us like f---,
even
after arriving on the NZ coast it got
worse. At one point somewhere about the end of September big
Jim accused the engineers of not working hard enough we were
doing 12 hour shifts, some of the engineers mutinied I was
on nights when they came to my cabin and said come on we
have had enough of CLARK , i did not join them.
Anyway one day i was working along with
shore side engineers who were doing the repairs, when i got
talking to this guy who said he used to be with NZ and asked
me how long i had been with NZ i replied this was my first
trip. We carried on working but something made me think i
had met this guy before, then i saw he he'd a finger missing
it was the
guy from the shipping office. I could
not believe l met this guy again at the other side of the
world. Ian Thomson
Editor: Keep the stories coming Ian
|
ian.thomson44atntlworld.com
21.05.14 |
|
Talking of unexpected reunions:
I and two toolmaker workmates wanted to go to sea and were
accepted by the NZSCo in 1962.
We all joined different ships and went
off at different times.
The day after arriving in Wellington
for the first time, one of our three walked on board having
arrived that very morning. Great reunion!
On my next trip we were in Wellington
and I was sitting in a cafe on Lambton Quay and the third of
our trio walked past the window having also arrived there
that day! Another great reunion, couldn't have planned it
that's for sure! Trevor Inman
|
treatiatbigpond.com
22.05.14 |
|
JR.ENG.
NORTHUMBERLAND 1965.
It was somewhere
about July/Aug in the Pacific we hit bad weather we managed
to avoid the worse of it as we were in contact with a Shaw
Savill boat and a Blue Star boat who were nearer to the
storm centre than us, so we altered course according to the
bridge and missed the worse. We might have missed what what
was classed as the worse, but I had never experienced
anything like it before.
We were told, for
the next two days, not to go outside the accommodation
verbally and by posted notices.
Me I was only 21
yrs old and after getting my sea legs thought it was great, I
came off watch and had dinner everyone seemed to disappear,
so I walked down our ally way and stood at the combing and
looked out onto the deck, I watched the huge waves which were
rolling us from side to side, I stupidly stepped outside
onto the deck took a few steps forward and stood shifting
from one leg to the other as the ship rolled, all of a
sudden I lost my footing as the angle of the deck increased
and I was off, sliding towards the deck side rails, I was
moving at free fall speed, I hit the deck rails grabbed a
hold of them and held on for dear life.
I got soaked but
survived with only a slight bruising, I held on till she came
back up then made a dash for the accommodation door. That was
another lesson learned. Ian Thomson
|
ian.thomson44atntlworld.com
25.05.14 |
J/Eng. Northumberland 1965.
I stood by the Northumberland for 11
days in London before sailing, there was the 4th eng. called
TONY from Manchester who was good company, he suggested we go
into London one night after evening meal, all who wanted to go
set out for the station at Plasto, on the way there we stopped
at the BLACK SWAN PUB. As we crossed the road we got to the
other side just as a red routemaster bus past going towards
the docks, there was an almighty shout from the platform of
the bus - " TONY " - we all waved and went into the pub, we
had just got the first round up when the door burst open and
in staggered "CHRIS" the 5th eng. Covered in blood, Tony asked
him what had happened to him, to which he replied "i jumped
off the bus but misjudged its speed and crashed into a hedge
in front of a billboard" CHRIS had a drink in him as he had
been into LONDON and was on his way back to the ship, so we
bought him a drink and we never made LONDON just stayed in the
BLACK SWAN. We had a great night the first of many, remember
walking back to the docks and stopping for a CODROE SUPPER it
was delicious we all made it back to the ship slept well, next
day was an other new adventure
Ian Thomson. |
ian.thomson44atntlworld.com
31.05.14 |
Could you please advise me how I can trace the voyages of the
NZSCo ships I sailed on in the 1950's. I have the ships names,
sign on and discharge dates from my seafarers passport - but
can't seem to find a source of the ports at which they called
during the voyages.
Thanks for maintaining such a valuable
resource for us (ex) seafarers!
regards Nick Wheeler |
nickw1938atgmail.com
02.06.14 |
|
I Remember arriving home after
my first trip to sea on the 'Tane and shutting down around
6am in the RAD. Somebody said "The pubs are open", so off we
went in engine- room garb to the pub just across from the
dock gates and joined all the dockers on their way to work!
After a prolonged session curtailed I vaguely recall by the
closing of the premises till later in the day, we returned
along the quay to the ship singing raucously, amongst other
ditties "Pack my bag pack my grip I'm not coming back next
trip, bye bye 'tane" to receive I fair old rollocking from
the more senior engineers to whom presumably a first home
coming and a big dose of the channels was a dim and distant
memory. Miserable sods..... but we were feeling no pain.....
however it was quite an embarrassment to be met later at the
railway station by my excited parents who were expecting me
to step smartly from the train all 'Bristol fashion and
shipshape' as opposed to lurching forth clutching my head!
At least I didn't throw up on the spot. Great memories
though. Trevor Inman
|
treatiatbigpond.com
03.06.14 |
I'd love to know for my mum if
anybody knew Raymond Voyce he worked for New Zealand
Shipping think he left about 1964 any thing would be great
to know. Still have so crew pictures. Ellen
Editor: Are you saying you have a few pictures, if so
can you scan and send by email |
ellenjfox1992@outlook.com
14.06.14 |
|
J/ENG. NORTHUMBERLAND 1965.
One day after JIM CLARK joined I
remember all the Engineers were working in the engine room,
when an almighty FRACAS broke out down at the purifier flat,
beside the oily water separator, between the CHIEF and the
5th engineer, CHRIS from NEWCASTLE.
Like all good theater and sport
events you want to see and hear what's going on so every one
to an engineer drifted towards the FRACAS. There was the
CHIEF going on about pipe runs, valves and cross over valves
to the 5th eng. who being a ginger nut was shouting back at
the CHIEF, both really worked up and red in the face, the
Chief shouting your the 5th you should know where all the
relevant pipes and valves start from and where they go to
and where the valves and bypasses are. the 5th shouting
back, I've only been on the boat since joining at LONDON
DOCKS well BIG CLARK lost it and told the 5th how long do
you want to learn your job as the 5th eng. and what your
responsibilities are, he shouted for the 2nd engineer, told
him to get a bilge boiler suit which turned out to be made
of a light rubber, got the 5th to put it on and in no
uncertain manner told the 5th that he had two days to crawl
about the bilges and make drawings covering all the pipes
and valves which were relevant to his job as the 5th eng.
and learn them off by heart and then bring the drawings up
to his office in two days and he would check to see if the
5th had covered all the pipe runs and valves. It was over
for the rest of us, but for the 5th it was just starting and
for the next two days all you could and hear was the 5th
cursing below the plates as he traced the pipes and valves
all ended well and CHRIS remained the 5th.eng.but neither
forgave nor forgot about that fracas.
Ian Thomson |
ian.thomson44atntlworld.com
15.06.14 |
|
Hi, I am trying to source some
images and/or information about the Shipping Corporation of
New Zealand, set up in 1974.
In particular I'd like to
find a images that show their logo which was first
designed for use in the 1974 Commonwealth Games held in
Christchurch.(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1974_British_Commonwealth_Games)
Any assistance you can
provide would be greatly appreciated,
cheers,Gavin O'Brien
|
gobrienatop.ac.nz
16.06.14 |
|
The Company's History in the
The Second World War 1939-1945
Further to the postings by
Angela and John, about the S.S. Hororata, my late father
David Ritchie was also a crew member aboard the S.S
Hororata when it was torpedoed on 13 December 1942, for
his part in the saving of the Hororata he was awarded
the British Empire Medal.
The New Zealand Shipping
Company published a book:
ORDEAL BY SEA
The Company's History in
the Second World War 1939-1945 by SYDNEY D. WATERS
THE NEW ZEALAND SHIPPING
COMPANY LIMITED
This book was published in
1949 and was given or sold to members of the company, my
father had a copy which was unfortunately lost to us
after being lent never to be returned, but about ten
years ago I managed to buy copy from a second hand book
store here in N.Z.
The salvage of the
Hororata has a chapter in this book. There is also photo
of the patch that enabled the Hororata to safely make it
back to Liverpool.
Appendix I
FLEET AS AT 3 SEPTEMBER
1939
Appendix II
WAR LOSSES
Appendix III
RECONSTRUCTION OF THE
FLEET
Appendix IV
ROLL OF HONOUR
Appendix V
HONOURS AND AWARDS
This includes shore staff
If anyone would like a
look up I am happy to help if that is okay with Jeffery
Please note this book does not contain passenger lists
or crew lists
There are still copies of
the book available; I saw one only a month ago in a
second-hand shop here in NZ
Elizabeth Horgan
Editor: Yes please,
Elizabeth. Thank you for your contribution
|
eekhorgatgmail.com
18.06.14 |
|
How one story prompts
another....all we have is our memories.
My time on the 'Tane was
under chief Frank Kent who at meal times would invite
passengers down for a 'Cook's Tour', then grab any off-
duty junior and say "Hey bloke, some passengers want a
look round this afternoon".
We would grudgingly take
the rubber- neckers down and under linger under the
manifold giving detailed explanations whilst they
writhed in discomfort.
Those on watch would have
a ball with alarms, blasts of steam and air, watertight
door closures oiled handrails and perving up through the
gratings at any young females (supposedly) unknowing
enough not to wear discreet attire.
Then we would race to the
fridge flat and into the Brine room....... What was it?
minus 12C, with them in their flimsy tropical gear. Heh
heh heh.
Oh the joy of it!
Trevor Inman
|
treatiatbigpond.com
19.06.14 |
|
I was on the Rakaia Sept 65 to
Sept 68 as a cadet. I would like to trace Jerry Walker and
Jim Morrison or hear from anyone there at the time. John
"Barney" Carter |
barnabysatbtinternet.com
20.06.14 |
|
I was trying to find a passenger list for
Anchor Line's RMS Celicia. I travelled in it August 1954 to
Liverpool. I finally wound up on this site while looking for
a passenger called Miss Leslie Timlet who was a passenger on
the NSZCo MS Rangitoto. We are same age, and both sailed
from London's KG5 August 1964 to Auckland; she was a
passenger, I was a restaurant steward and served her meals.
We were close but lost touch. I believe she married a local
archeologist.
In order to research facts about my
ancestors I am trying (impossible it seems!) to find
something about my father's (born India 1912) early life and
about his parents (born Scotland date?) My parents (both
long deceased) were VERY secretive. I am writing my life
story chiefly for the benefit of my six children, 19
grandchildren, and 6 great grandchildren - because I do not
want them to wonder anything about me. I also have children
in Auckland, Vancouver, Sydney, and parts of the UK, all of
whom SADLY I never met. I was born Karachi 10 August 1943
and following India's Partition migrated emigrated to the
UK. I migrated to NL March 1986.
Terence W. Harris |
terryharris962atymail.com
21.06.14 |
|
Help any one who was on the
Rangitiki 59 to 62 in the galley I was 2nd chef before moving
onto the game and Toto the ships cook on the surrey and the
Dorset looking for Eddie spouse ads cook with me on tiki ..
Tony
Norbury |
tonynorbury8atgmail.com
23.06.14 |
|
Ah the Doxfords.......Port
engine has number 4 cylinder blanked off due to cracked
crankshaft. Made it there and back OK! Trevor Inman
Editor: Trevor has sent in a photo of the Rangitane
engine room which has been loaded up for all to see
|
treatiatbigpond.com
25.06.14 |
|
I would like to hear from any
old ship mates from the New Zealand Shipping Company who may
remember serving with me in the late 1950s and early 1960s.I
served on the Papanui, Pipiriki and the Huntington. I sailed
on the Manz run. James McKibben
|
jmckibbenathotmail.co.uk
28.06.14 |
|
Editor: Stuart Rae has sent in a photo of the officers
on board the Whangaroa March 1961which is now
loaded for all to see. |
s_raeatslingshot.co.nz
04.07.14 |
|
My Grandfather Captain RA
Newton took the 1st NZ Expeditionary Force Troop Ship Arawa
with the 9 other ships from Wellington to Alexandria Egypt
16 Oct- 1 Dec 1914. His pregnant wife Maria and daughter
Winifred followed quickly, I believe on a NZSC ship, to meet
in Plymouth UK. In 1917 Maria, Winifred and London born son
Kenneth returned to NZ likewise I surmise on a NZSC vessel.
I am currently writing an account of the 1st
Expeditionary Force based on grandfather's Arawa Work
book and the Signals Log, Both rather faded and attacked
by silverfish but just legible.
I would like to know which
vessels and the dates of departure and arrival.
Your help in this endeavour would be greatly appreciated
as I believe its is part of NZ's history not to be lost.
Yours Sincerely,
Ripley N Jones
|
ripleyjonesatxtra.co.nz
05.07.14 |
|
My Dad was on the MV Essex in
Malta (as an engineer). He has sinced passed away (in his
90th year); it was very hard to get him to speak about his
time during the war. His name was Thomas Brown and worked in
the engine rooms. He was born in Shotts, Scotland in 1920.
Quite a modest man; as mentioned, he very rarely spoke about
the war years... I did get a little info out of him, but
when he said he was on the MV Essex, I 'dug around' on the
internet to find info.
About a year before he
passed away, I showed him what I had found (about it
having been scrapped etc.) plus picture.
This was the first time I
EVER saw my Dad cry his heart out... It was NOT a
comfortable moment and I got little info out of him. He
did mention being on board when the dock was dive-bombed
by the Germans and I also have since found out that my
sister (12 years older than me and living in Toronto,
Canada - I'm in London, England), was given a 'dagger /
paper-knife' to pass on to my nephew. I have still not
seen it, but it seems it was etched with a message;
'from the people of Malta to Thomas Brown, for all his
help & support in protecting Malta' (OR similar, my
sister cannot remember the exact words!). I await
confirmation. It also appears my younger brother (by 2
years) had 'words' with my sister; saying it should have
come to me as the eldest son! (Oh dear; family
arguments, and I didn't even know until after the event,
such is the way, what can I say!). Anyway, when I find
our more I shall let you know. Regards, John Brown
|
johnbattraffik.uk.com
14.07.14 |
|
Not one of my happier
stories......... On departure from the Wellington dockside
in '72, the Rangitane had barely moved away from the quay
when a steward went down aft to where all the accumulated
garbage of a prolonged stay in port had been stacked and
tossed it into the harbour with crowds of shocked onlookers
there to wave goodbye and sing 'Now is the Hour' whilst
holding onto the ribbons from shore to ship.
Those of us watching on
board too were disgusted and embarrassed but in those
days a lot of stuff got tossed overboard but discreetly
one would like to think. I doubt there were any
repercussions unlike nowadays albeit when the damage to
a great extent has already been done.
Trevor Inman.
|
treatiatbigpond.com
19.07.14 |
|
Suffolk under sail (canvas)
Liverpool to Auckland March 1967 with Captain Sladen (slasher).
10 week voyage plus 10 days in Tahiti for repairs. Hatch
canvas covers converted to jury sail. Hugh Macfarlane
|
quirainghouseathotmail.com
20.07.14 |
|
Nothing important to say, I did
my first trip as a galley boy on the Cambridge. Later I did
two trips on the Rangitoto as one of the ships butchers.
This was during the sixties. Stuart Robinson |
stuartrobinson1941atgooglemail.com
22.07.14 |
|
I was reading the NZS Co site
when I came upon your note wanting info on the Samkey. I
have a book called The Liberty Ships (second edition) by L.A
Sawyer and W.H. Mitchell. 1985 ISBN 1-85044-049-2
This covers "The history of the "Emergency" type Cargo
ships constructed in the USA during the Second World
War" built by Bethlehem-Fairfield shipyard No. 2295 as
Carl Thusgaard, completed as Samkey
This gives some more
information on the Samkey (Stafford ) and her sister
ship Leicester (Samesk) and problems with stability and
ballast in tween decks.
"The Court of Enquiry
presumed that uncontrolled ballast in the Samkey had
suddenly shifted, high seas had overwhelmed her and the
ship had gone straight down"
The Samesk had "shifting
boards carried away in Atlantic hurricane, and with a
list of 70° was towed into Bermuda".
I sailed with NZSCo/Federal
ships 1949 -54
Eric Dalzell
|
fndalzell.29atorange.fr
23.07.14 |
|
Hi Jeff,
Remember me?
Still writing poems. My
wife has finally entered a home for those poor souls
suffering from Alzheimer.
Due to my own ill health,
Parkinson's disease, severe heart trouble etc. I
couldn't care for her at home any longer.
I would like to share the
poems in my five books.
Would you like a copy of
books 3&4 ?
If so, just give me a
shout.
Hooroo,
Harry
Editor: Yes i do and Yes
please.
|
harrysimpson2003atyahoo.fr
29.07.14
|
|
Bonjour Jeff,
Thanks for your rapid reply. I
posted the two books yesterday but only by 2ndclass post;
priority costs far too much. They should arrive within 2
weeks. You said in one of your messages that you liked
reading our stories.
There are quite a few in one of
the books.
When I organised the 50th.
anniversary reunion of the Otaio in 2008 I knew that I had
Parkinson's disease but never thought it would develop the
way it has. My ticker isn't that good either. Having said
this I am still in contact via émail with a lot of the men I
sailed with.............and also their widows.
Springfield rings a bell, I think
an ex cadet captain of the Otaio John Zealley, lived in this
sleepy burgh. Enjoy the books.
Hooroo,
Harry Simpson |
harrysimpson2003atyahoo.fr
30.07.14 |
|
Thought you might be
interested in the attached photos:
The first one shows Course
11, Otaio Engineering Cadets, outside Poplar Technical
College in 1968, the second one shows the surviving /
traceable members in the same location in 2013.
Regards
Nick Waddington
Editor: The photos have come in as PDF's have
asked Nick privately if he could scan and send as jpegs
then it will be easier to load up.
|
Nick.Waddingtonatghd.com
31.07.14 |
|
Had it pointed out that I made
a boo-boo in my recent contribution.
It was '62 when the the
trash got thrown overboard in Wellington Harbour from
the 'Tane.
Sorry folks, her life with
NZSCo was well and truly over by '72.
Trevor Inman
|
treatiatbigpond.com
04.08.14 |
|
What an interesting site, have
enjoyed reading some of the past.
Joined MV Suffolk Bluff
May 65. First experience help 4th start POLAR generator,
bar flywheel, pump lube oil, open air valve, scare the
hell out of me, flames coming from exhaust manifold and
extreme noise.
Did 3 trips on Haparangi
then 2 trips Hauraki July 66 interesting last trip,
Starboard engine making noise, hammer test found no
problem in NZ Chief requested stop engine after Panama
found crankshaft coupling bolts had come loose and
moving. Removed crankcase side cover plate approximately
3 meters wide x 4 meters high and replace the coupling
bolts from oversize spares, Machined to size on small on
board lathe, if I remember correctly there was
approximately 10 and 90 mm diameter by 400 mm long.
About 2 x 24 hour days to complete. Went in to Dry dock
Falmouth stayed in Falmouth on various vessels
overseeing repairs and coasting to Albert dock when
surveys complete.
Joined Hurunui December 67
for 1 trip then final trip back to NZ on Northumberland
January 68.
Fondly remember this
period of my life, as 10 engineers on the ships, we
partied together on shore and on board, and cannot
remember one bad experience on ship or off.
Would like to hear from
any persons who were on the same ships during this
period and would really like some engine room photo's
Regards John Broughton
|
jasbroatwinshop.com.au
19.04.18 |
|
Any clues as to where I can
purchase a Crossed Flags tie, if such an article exists.
Jack Cotter |
papanui1atbigpond.com
27.08.14 |
|
Does anyone know which port was used to ship
machinery/equipment to as part of the building of the
Waikaremoana Power Scheme. My father was engaged in shipping
the equipment (probably from Wellington) before WW11. Any
ideas |
middlebrookrobinatgmail.com
02.09.14 |
|
Hi Jeffrey, With reference to Jack Cotter's
enquiry 'Crossed Flags' tie, there was such an article, I
have one in my wardrobe. Probably very rare these days I
brought mine about 50 years ago at the office in Royal
Albert Docks. Sailed on Ruahine, Rangitane, Derby and others
in the 60's, happy days. Excellent website keep up the great
work Bob Manning |
bobmannning43atbtinternet.com 03.09.14 |
|
My mother, an American who married a kiwi
soldier in Egypt (yes there is a story in it, and I am
writing it) travelled on the Rimutaka in July 1944 arriving
in Wellington. The ship was in a convoy, and I would love to
hear any stories people might have about that journey (I
think from New York, through Panama) because I remember talk
of torpedoes, depth charges, and I think a ship that went
down. Ali Schaper |
alischatxtra.co.nz 04.09.14 |
|
Have rediscovered your excellent
site, lasted posted nine years ago 14.09.05. Now living in
Bangkok and with a different email address, still at sea in
command of a Singapore owned Dive Support Vessel in offshore
oil and gas industry. I have happy memories of the years
1969 to 1982 from Voyage 25 on Otaio to signing off the Wild
Gannett in Auckland and all the ships between particularly
Tekoa 1973 to 1975, and Somerset 1976 to 1977 Regards to all
Mike Fletcher |
mariner16atfsmail.net
10.09.14 |
|
Jnr Eng. 1965 MV
Northumberland. On arrival at NZ our first port of call was
at an oil refinery on the north island where we discharged
our deck cargo which consisted of fifty gallon drums which
had been lashed around the holds on the deck, it was
somewhere near Whangarei. We then coasted discharging at
Auckland, then Lyttleton for Christchurch, then back to
Whangarei, where we were told that the MV Northumberland was
the first ship to use the brand new loading dock at
Whangarei and if I remember we loaded bails of wool and a
cargo of pea's, then back to Auckland for more cargo, then
onto Littleton for final stage of loading. In the mean time
Jim Clark was still flogging us to death to get the
starboard engine repairs completed. The cargo was stowed and
the hatches battened ready for sea but we were not going far
we were towed off our pier and put out at the breakwater
where we were to stay for the next two or three weeks by the
end we were rely pissed off with the distance we had to walk
to the pub every night after work then back to the ship.
Towards the end someone organised a party onboard so we all
chipped in and CHRIS the 5th Eng. went into Littleton and
came back with a cargo and a load of girls, we were making
for our accommodation on board when we were stopped by the
old man and then Jim Clark who told us we could not bring
drink onboard nor girls, after a bit of a fracas we
retreated back off to the breakwater where we some how
sourced a getto blaster and proceeded to party, with the old
man and Jim Clark hanging over the side threatening to get
the police to us. All ended well we had a good night, the
noise must have been driving them mad.
Ian j g w Thomson.
|
ian.thomson44atntlworld.com
17.09.14 |
|
I first sailed as 9th engineer
on the MV Northumberland in June 1965 until January 1966,
then I joined MV Wharanui on 10th February 1966 as 6th
engineer on the M.A.N.Z. run between the East Coast of
America to both New Zealand and Australia, signing off in
Jamaica 12th May 1967. On 7th September 1967 I joined MV
Huntingdon as 5th engineer and signed off on 28th January
1968. On 1st April 1968 I sailed as 4th engineer on MV
Hertford and stayed with the ship on various trips until
12th March 1969. Then I joined on 7th September 1969 MV
Manapouri on home trade then left the company to join the
Union Steam Ship Company of New Zealand as 3rd engineer. I
stayed with the company only about 6 months, then took up
residence in New Zealand working shore side. On 7th January
1974 I joined my old ship MV Huntingdon in Auckland, New
Zealand replacing 4th engineer that wished to go on leave. I
took the ship back to England and I stayed with the
Huntingdon until July 1974 as 4th engineer. That is when I
finished my sailing days and went shore side. Brian
Pendleton |
bpendletonattalktalk.net
17.09.14 |
|
I did not know that there was a
web site for the ships that went to New Zealand until your
web site popped up this morning. My relations travelled to
New Zealand many times. I just had a thought, that I looked
up the old newspaper archives and I found their name and the
name of their ship and the details thereon. I just thought
this may help you find more passengers to list for the
people who wish to finish their family trees. Diane Leech |
dleechathotkey.net.au
17.09.14 |
|
Served on Athlone castle 45-47 Union Castle
line. Then ..... old Tekoa , Gloucester , Empire Windrush,
Sussex , Orarai, Nottingham, Huntingdon. Joined NZ shipping
co from Athlone Castle 7 yrs NZ shipping co I have photos of
various ships and football teams. Leonard Ronald Spencer |
lspencerathotmail.com.au
20.09.14 |
|
I guess anyone who frequented the Royal
Albert Docks would have visited the Custom House? Pub.
We were all in there one night and on meandering back to the
'Tane at 2E Bruce Rankin's insistence (gee they had some
power in those days!), the ship was suddenly plunged into
darkness.
Did we run, would have been away from the ship if Bruce
hadn't have been there!
The gennie had dropped it's bundle, so we all piled down
blundering about in the dark to get another on the board.
If there were emergency lights they were pretty feeble, like
our efforts!
On the ensuing voyage we were pulling down one of said Allen
generators for survey and were well advanced when the
greaser blasted a hose onto the commutator of an on- line
gennie, doing untold damage so it was onto 6 hour watches to
box up the dismantled number knowing we would have to go
through the whole frigging process again and the
electricians spent many a happy hour repairing the comm.
etc.
Loved it when I finally got onto B Articles with plenty of 'ovies'.
Does anyone actually go down below these days?
Trevor Inman |
treatiatbigpond.com
21.09.14 |
|
My father Charles Watson served as a steward on
the MV Rangitoto from the UK to New Zealand in 1949. Matt
Watson |
Barclaymattatsky.com
21.09.14 |
|
MV Cornwall ... My first trip to sea in 1962
was as a deck boy on he above ship. She sailed from London
to Swansea for a spell in dry dock then on the Liverpool. I
wonder if anybody here remembers what happened on that short
voyage, one thing is for certain that if your were part of
the ships crew it will stay in your mind for ever. Rod Wohl |
snowy46atyahoo.com
22.09.14 |
|
Looking for information or photos RE: S.S.
KAIMATA in Convoy UGS-18. Dates: 15 Sept 1943 to 14 October
1943. Convoy was attacked by German A/C on 4 October 1943
off Cape Tenes in the Med. I am writing a book focusing upon
another freighter in this convoy and am looking for first
hand accounts from participants in the convoy from non-U.S.
ships. Thank you Theron P. Snell |
tsnellatwi.rr.com
03.10.14 |
|
My father Peter Nelson Jeanes served onboard
the Hororata, Essex, Pipiriki and Northumberland during the
later part of the second world war and through until mid
50,s. I have found a few photographs that someone may find
interesting about his time on board and would be happy to
share them. Paul |
pandajeanesatbtinternet.com
06.010.14 |
My father Thomas Frank Walsh, was
Steward/violinist, on board the Rangitane 1936
Bernard Mcdonnell Walsh |
marlene.walshattalktalk.net
11.10.14 |
My father Alfred Holbrook was
stoker on Hororata on 1943
Ann White |
peterwhite12attinyworld.co.uk
23.10.14 |
|
Hello, When I was 4 years old ( 1959 ) My
mother and I travelled to the UK and back on the Rangitata.
Apart from Pitcairn Island, what other ports of call did the
ship stop at? I would love to know as I was too young to
remember way back then. I presume we went through the Panama
Canal both ways? Any info would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks John Smith |
fajsmithaticloud.com
25.10.14 |
|
In 1960 or thereabouts, I inherited a 'ship
in a bottle'. One side portrays MV Sussex and the other, MV
Hinakura. I believe this may have been made by my uncle who
served on a number of ships during the 40's to 60's.
Do you know if a museum would like this? I am going to be
in ChCh in December and could bring it over but only if it
is of interest (weight!). Janice Marshall
Editor: Your request is out there now Janice, lets
see what happens. |
jm.marshallatvirgin.net
26.10.14 |
|
During the period of P&O GCD as
an original engineer with B.I, met a number of NZS
engineering staff and wonder if they, (after all this time)
will read this. I sailed with Dave Handley on Carpentaria
last known residence Hobart, then Tom Webster Otaki last
known residence Melbourne and finally a CEO Richard Weston
on Strathnaver ex Jumna last seen in Falmouth. If they read
this or someone knows there whereabouts would like to catch
up. Keith Walker |
keith_walker49athotmail.com
07.12.14 |
|
Editor: Bob Malcolm sent a
photo of the M.V Northumberland 1967 football team that
played a game in Newark, New Jersey, New York 9th
June 1967 Football Team he mentions he was in the
back row 2nd from the right ... photo loaded up in the
Northumberland folder |
bob.treshiaatgooglemail.com
23.12.14 |
|
Dear Sir, I recently obtained a 1.5m model
of the MV Whakatane,which needs to be completed. I would
like to know if the railings on the bridge wings are
railings with timber tops or full screens with timber tops
?? Regards Rick .... Merry Xmas to you also |
corricatagcug.com
24.12.14 |
|
A Happy Christmas and the best wishes for
the New Year to all the Gentle men that I sailed with in the
Greatest Shipping Co on the planet. Noddy Bowcock.
Editor: I am sure there are a few fella's out there
who would agree. |
lesbowcockatrocketmail.com
24.12.14 |
|
I have just discovered this site, as I am
trying to write my life story in case my grandchildren or
someone is one day interested. I travelled NZ-UK on the Ruahine
in 1963 (maybe) but don't remember it. I do however remember
travelling UK-NZ on the Rangitane in 1967 (June/July, I think),
one of the happiest memories of my childhood. In particular I
remember the Officer "Taffy," perhaps the Taffy Roberts
mentioned elsewhere on this site as being on the Rangitoto. I
was desperately traumatised by the Crossing the Line ceremony -
but taffy remained a hero throughout my childhood, even if I
have no idea who he was! Michael Godfrey |
michael.dylanfreakatgmail.com
31.12.14 |
