Paddlewheels on the Wanganui Movie Tickets

 Recall the exciting days when the old paddle steamers plied their way up the two hundred and thirty nine rapids between Whanganui and Taumarunui.

In the years between 1912 and 1919, David Reid was an engineer on boats of the famous Hatrick fleet – among them being the Wairua, the Whakapai and the Wai-iti. These vessels were the lifeline, of the pioneer farms and Maori settlements of the river valley, besides being a vital link in the booming, Auckland – Wellington tourist system.

The spectacular, – and often hair-raising – three day journey downriver, between overhanging bush-topped bluffs, and along quiet willow-lined reaches, was for thousands of tourists from all parts of the world, the highlight of their visit.

David served on all three stretches of river; Whanganui to Pipiriki, Pipiriki to the Houseboat and the Houseboat to Taumarunui, and his nephew Alec has made a vivid story of his uncle’s recollections, skilfully re-creating the atmosphere, people and events of the almost forgotten world of the Whanganui Riverboats.

A trailer of the film can be viewed here https://youtu.be/-4Fgg4x-nPs