TAUPATA AT KAIAPOI

Press, Volume C, Issue 29467, 20 March 1961, Page 16

TAUPATA AT KAIAPOI

Vessel Crosses Bar Safelv

The largest vessel to visit the Port of Kaiapoi tied up at 6 p_m. on Saturday after crossing the bar with a 2ft clearance at high tide. The ship is the Taupata. of 268 tons, and measuring 127 ft. She is owned by the Pearl Kasper Shipping Company, and normally runs between Wellington and Lyttelton. She was diverted from Lyttelton because of congestion there. The Taupata crossed the bar drawing 7ft 3in. Mr R. M. Nelson, local manager of the Inter-Island Steamship Company, who watched the crossing said it was done without difficulty. ‘"She also turned safely at the wharf.” Mr Nelson said. •‘lt was thought this manoeuvre might be difficult because of the narrow channel." The Taupata has general cargo and six cars on deck. She is expected to unload bv Tuesday and leave the port at high tide on Wednesday morning. A new ship will be imported to run between Wellington and Kaiapoi. Mr Nelson said yesterday. The new steel vessel will be capable of carrying up to 180 to 200 tons of general cargo on a draft of 6ft 6in to 7ft. Provision will be made for refrigerated cargo and heavy lifts.

Until the new vessel arrives the company’s ships Ranginui and Paroto will be assisted by the Taupata.