Remembering the 47th anniversary of the Wahine disaster.

Survivors, the families and rescuers of the Wahine Disaster will be reunited to mark the 47th anniversary of New Zealand’s worst maritime disaster on 10 April.

On Wahine Day 2015, Museum of Wellington City and Sea will mark the anniversary with the laying of a wreath, hourly bell ringing, and a musical tribute from 12:30 to 1:15pm. A series of four films based on the disaster will screen throughout the day.

“The Wahine Disaster was a significant day in Wellington’s history. By remembering Wahine Day, we recall those who were lost, and honour those who helped,” says Rachel Ingram, Head of Learning and Programmes.

On 14 April, Maritime Friends of Wellington will host ‘The Wahine Disaster – A Panel Discussion’, at Museum of Wellington City and Sea, starting at 7:30pm.

Gaylene Preston’s documentary on the Wahine will be screened, followed by personal recollections from survivors Rob and Muriel Ewen, and rescuer Captain John Brown, with a meteorological perspective from Met Service severe weather forecaster Erick Brenstrum. Questions from the audience will follow, and the evening will conclude with a light supper.

“I was working in Wellington on the day and vividly remember the drama that was unfolding and the feeling of helplessness that it engendered” said William Pitt, Maritime Friends of Wellington President.

“I remember looking out of my office window and seeing shrubs uprooted from the grounds of Parliament being blown across the northern end of Lambton Quay. Despite the storms ferocity, many Wellingtonians risked their lives to help the survivors.”

Fifty one people lost their lives on April 10, 1968 when the Wahine ferry, travelling from Lyttelton into Wellington Harbour, ran into difficulties caused by tropical cyclone Giselle and eventually sank. A further two people died after the disaster, from injuries sustained on the day.

Entry to Maritime Friends of Wellington’s Wahine programme is by koha. Entry to Museum of Wellington City and Sea’s programme on Wahine Day is free.

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