On the 12 February 1909, the SS Penguin sank in Cook Strait in a raging southerly storm with the loss of 72 lives, one of the worst maritime disasters in NZ history. Many of those who died were woman and children, as their lifeboats capsized in the wild sea.

Although the Captain was heavily criticised, it is still not clear what the ship hit nor where, as the wreck of the Penguin has never been located.

The tragedy stunned Wellington and a day of mourning was called for 16 February. The city came to a standstill as many of those who died were brought up to Karori Cemetery for burial in a long procession of cabs and lorries.

To commemorate this tragedy the Friends will be undertaking a guided tour of most of the Penguin graves on Sunday 9th February. The tour will commence at 1pm at the Shelter which is located in the centre of Karori Cemetery and will run for up to two hours starting with a short presentation.

The tour is $10 per person (plus non-refundable booking fee). Children under 12 are free.

Our tour has a maximum capacity of about 15 persons. If there are insufficient tickets remaining for your party, please email us at info@friendsofkaroricemetery.co.nz to check if we can accommodate you.

Please note:

If we have to cancel a tour due to inclement weather or sickness, we will notify you on the day 1 hour before the tour starts by email and on our Facebook page. The booking fee is non-refundable.

Please dress appropriately for the conditions. While we do our best to guide you on a safe walking route, during the winter months the ground can become slippery in places.

Some of our walks require a moderate degree of fitness and are not suited for those with limited mobility.

There is only one toilet which is located by the cemetery office at the main entrance.

Please meet us at the shelter (shown as the Historic Chapel on the map at the main entrance)

We look forward to welcoming you to Karori Cemetery.