Kaitoke II 1948-1980

Type of ship: Cargo

Propulsion: Single screw motor, 10 knots.

The Kaitoke II was built in 1948 by Stephen & Sons Ltd. Linthouse, for the Union Steam Ship Company trans-Tasman cargo run.

She was a sister ship to Komata and Koromiko. Others to follow from the same yard were Kawaroa 1950, Waimate in 1951, Kurutai in 1952, Kowhai 1952, Waimea 1953, Kawerau 1955, Kaimiro 1956, Kaituna 1956, Koranui 1957, Koraki 1957, Katea 1958, Waikare 1958 and Risdon 1959.

Those whose names started with W had tween decks, and the last ship, Risdon, was designed specifically for Australian interstate trades. Most were replaced by mid 1970s as the roll on, roll off (RoRo ships) and container trades started. 

In 1955 she grounded at Timaru and again in 1958.

In 1974 she was sold to Cia. Nav. Keohsiang [Panama] (Sam U Shipping Co. Ltd. Hong Kong) - Singapore

In 1975 she was on sold to  Ioansun SA, [Panama] to be operated by Zea Shipping Ltd. Piraeus - Venus then renamed Mars. 

On 20 September 1978 while on passage between Casablanca and Ravenna she went aground at Tarifa Point, Spain and was laid up in Chalkis, Greece, due to damage, from 11 November until she was sold to Greek shipbreakers who commenced demolition on 9 November 1980. 

Owners & Previous Names

1948-72 USSCo

1972-73 Various eastern owners

1974 - Cia. Nav. Keohsiang [Panama] (Sam U Shipping Co. Ltd. Hong Kong) - Singapore

1975 - Ioansun SA, [Panama], operated by Zea Shipping Ltd. Piraeus - Venus then renamed Mars

1980 - Greek ship breakers