Aramoana 1962-1984

Built in 1962 by Wm Denny & Bros Ltd, Dumbarton for New Zealand Railways Cook Strait service and to be operated by the USSCo. She was the first rail ferry to operate on the NZ coast. The ship was revolutionary being roll on roll off, had bridge control of main engines, a bow thruster and a bow rudder. The bow rudder was seldom used.  The prefix GMV (Government Motor Vessel) was used until about 1980 when the more conventional prefix DEV (diesel electric vessel) was used for Aramoana, Aranui and Arahura. By the time Aratere arrived such nomenclature seems to have disappeared. She could carry up to 788 passengers.

In 1971 operation of the ship transferred to New Zealand Railways. In 1977 Aramoana went to Sembawang Shipyard, Singapore for refitting and remodelling.  After her return she served until June 1983 when she was laid up for sale.

Aramoana was sold to Najd Maritime Agency, Jedah and along with Aranui  left Wellington on 9th November 1984. Under the name Aram she sailed to Singapore to be refitted. She was renamed Najd II and along with the former Aranui operated a Red Sea pilgrim service.