Wahine Day

It seemed impossible that so many lives could be lost so close to shore. Although the main cause of the accident was the atrocious weather conditions, the subsequent inquest also acknowledged that errors of judgement had been made both on board the ferry and on shore.

– Website New Zealand History online

The fiercest storm in living memory picked up a 9000 ton ship and tossed her blind, here, on Barrett Reef.

– Narrator Ray Henwood

And here's a special news item just to hand: the interisland ferry Wahine is reported to have gone aground on Barrett Reef a short time ago. Tugs are on their way to help but the Marine Department believes there is no serious danger.

– Radio news report