Hikitia

HIKITIA – Wellington’s Steam Powered Floating Crane

Ownership of Hikitia was transferred to the Maritime heritage Trust of Wellington on 16 March 2006. The Trust’s objectives are to promote maritime heritage in the Wellington region. Trustees include Nigel Gould, Chairman, Bill Bay, Peter McKnight, Alfie des Tomb and Malcolm McGregor.

Hikitia was launched in Glasgow, Scotland in 1926 and arrived in Wellington on 21 December 1926. The ship is now unique as it is the last working example of its kind. It is a steam powered self-propelled heavy lift floating crane. All machinery functions and the objective is to get the ship back into full survey including the ability to be self- propelled and to lift its design weight of 80tonne.

Major refurbishments were carried out at Lyttelton in 2009 including major hull repair, reconditioning of all below water valves and propellor shafts. The hull, crane and decks were painted. The ship is now close to being fully operable in all aspects.

Current tasks include reinstating the steering gear not used since 1978, completing refurbishment of the Gear Room that houses the operating gears at the base of the crane tower and lifting the standard of appearance of the ship on both outside and inside.

Welcome to this web site – detail can be found elsewhere.

2013 Fireworks in Wellington

Nov

On the 9th of November, the Hikitia took a central part in Wellington's Sky Show as the central platform for the fireworks display.