Monday, 2 March 2015

When is a canoe not a canoe?

My latest project has been the restoration of a little 10 foot replica of a New Zealand made 19th. Century dinghy known locally as an Okura Gig. This GRP hull was made during the 1980's by Dinghy Development in Auckland. It was hand laid in a two piece mould.

I found it in dilapidated condition with a bad crack in the hull and rotting timber work.

Okura Gig hull when I first found it, ready for a water blast

Okura Gig.
Okura Gig, all rotten timber removed.
Okura Gig showing hull damage.
Okura Gig showing wine glass stern.
Okura Gig, damage to hull.
Okura Gig
                                         The poor condition of this dinghy is clear to see.


Okura Gig. After some time this is the result of my efforts.
Okura Gig
Okura Gig.
Okura Gig
Preliminary rigging on the front lawn with my son Robert.