Restoration to make Daring shipshape

JULIA WADE

Safely ensconced in her specifically-built shelter behind Mangawhai Museum, the Daring is recuperating after her incredible long journey home, which began three years ago when she was discovered half-buried in the west coast sands of Muriwai.

Now under the care and protection of the Mangawhai Daring Trust (MDT) the 19th century schooner awaits the next step in her recovery, and recently underwent a two-day assessment from two conservators.

Constructed in Mangawhai out of local kauri and pohutukawa in 1863, the Daring was deliberately marooned and reluctantly abandoned by her crew two years later, after becoming caught in heavy gales. She remained hidden in the black sands for over 150 years before being discovered in 2018 when the shore sand receded, and is said to be ‘one of the most complete vessels of the time’.

Considered important to New Zealand in regards to the country’s history and education, MDT chair Jim Wintle says once the ship has been restored she will be exhibited in a custom-built museum where her story, as well as of those who were part of her recovery, can be told.

“We have just received the conservators report and from this we will have a way forward to start restoration of the Daring back to how she emerged from the sands at Muriwai,” he says. “We’ll also know how to continue the conservation work required for her to last another 155 years in a permanent purpose-made facility that will leave everyone proud.”

Conservators have assessed the Daring meaning a restoration plan can be drafted up. PHOTO/JULIA WADE