MEDIA RELEASE 26 March 2014

46 years on - Remembering the Wahine

46 years ago, the Wahine storm struck and affected lives of passengers, crew, rescuers, family members and the wider Wellington region. Museum of Wellington City & Sea will be remembering the 46th anniversary of the Wahine disaster with a day of commemorations.

Over two days in April, 1968, New Zealand experienced a storm of savage ferocity. Just after 6am on 10 April, the Inter Island ferry TEV Wahine entered the harbour battling against winds of over 100 miles per hour. For the following nine hours, Wellington was battered by the worst storm in New Zealand recorded history.

Between April 3- 10, the Museum will commemorate the disaster with special events to share the story.

On 10 April, Museum of Wellington City & Sea will showcase and premiere new and donated collection items surrounding the Wahine disaster. New film footage of the launch of the Wahine will premiere and Exhibitions and Collections Manager, David Waller will introduce a new Museum acquisition, the Wahine’s bridge bell.

“The Museum’s new collection items add to Wellington’s taonga, history and story. As home to the story of the Wahine, the new film footage and bell add to the significant objects inside the Museum that tell the Wahine’s story.” Brett Mason (Museums Wellington Director)

The Museum continues to gather people’s experiences from the disaster. Throughout April, visitors will be invited to add their Wahine story in the Te Upoko o te Ika a Maui exhibition.

“It’s important to continue gathering information and stories from those affected by the Wahine disaster. It brings people together to share, reflect and discuss their experiences. The Wahine bell will be rung and a wreath of tribute will be laid. There is also the opportunity for survivors, rescuers and others interested in the story to meet.” Brett Mason

NOTE TO EDITORS

Thursday 10 April events

9.30am- Private screening to Wahine survivors

9.55am- Wreath laying

10am- Bell ringing

12pm- Launch of newly discovered film footage of the launch of the Wahine

12.35pm- The Baker Trio perform Pavane pour une infante défunte

(Pavane for a Dead Princess) Ravel

At 2, 3.15 and 4.30pm the short film of the Wahine will play, followed by a final bell ringing at 5pm.

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