The Portland at it's current location. Photos by Helena de Reus.
The entrance to Pounawea on the Owaka River, where the boat was previously moored.
The 103-year-old vessel The Portland has moved from its usual mooring at the entrance to Pounawea on the Owaka River, having been shifted a little further downstream.
At low tide the scow is completely high and dry, offering some curious residents a closer look.
Ray Mathieson, of Katea, near Owaka, bought the vessel in 1979, but recently sold it to an Auckland man, who hopes to sail the scow home.
In the meantime, repairs would be made and a shipwright would inspect it to ensure it was safe to sail.
The Portland was built by George T. Niccol, of Auckland, and launched in 1910.
Built of kauri, it was originally owned by Wilsons New Zealand Portland Cement Co and traded in the Auckland area.
