Nelson's Tug Commissioned

March 17, St. Patrick's Day, has special significance for the Nelson Harbour Board. On that day nine years ago its section dredge, Karitea, was launched at Nelson. This year, on the same day, the board's new tug, Wakatu, was commissioned. It was a big day and a big event for the board. There has long been a need for such a vessel, and it is apparent that the Wakatu (Maori for "Nelson") is going to be a tower of strength to the pilots of overseas craft. It is reported that she handled beautifully during a very rough trip from the makers' yards in Auckland, and we, like every other Nelson resident, are looking forward to seeing her in action.

With bunting flying and fire hose playing the Wakatu enters Nelson and takes its first look at the Paparoa, the type of vessel she will be helping.

The Wakatu was escorted into port by a pilot boat on which most of the board's staff travelled. From left, Messrs Bill Parr (secretary), M. H. McGlashen (board chairman), and Gay Nell, Freda Burden, Noni Arthur and Bev Cottrell.

At commissioning ceremony Wakatu is handed over to harbour master, Capt R. Murphy.

Iron Duke Sea Scouts presented a plaque made from wood of an earlier Wakatu, to the board.

An historic picture, the S. S. Rakaia, the first overseas ship to berth at Nelson on April 19, 1909, is aided by the very tiny tug, Gordon. (Pic from J. Williams's collection).

A view of the crowd at the commissioning ceremony

The Wakatu's first job was to take 38 Iron Duke Sea Scouts for a trip round the harbour

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The Nelson Photo News

No 17 : March 31, 1962

Nelson's Tug Commissioned