Museum Notebook: The ill-fated dredge that blew up, killing crew
3 Jan, 2021 04:00 PM
4 minutes to read
Kaione after the explosion, 28 March 1929. Photographer: T H Whetton. Whanganui Regional Museum Collection Ref: W-S-Aux-020
Whanganui Chronicle
By: Sandi Black
In the early 20th century the Whanganui harbour was booming but in danger of falling behind. The Wanganui Harbour Board wanted to accommodate increasingly large ships but the approach and port basin were too shallow and the port equipment was aging.
In May 1914 the WHB borrowed £150,000 ($24 million in 2020) for improvements, including the purchase of a dredge. The winning tender was awarded to Fleming & Ferguson in Paisley, Scotland, for £35,000 ($5 million).