CLASSIC BAY OF ISLNDS FERRY – BAY BELLE GETS A NEW LIFE

If you’re  on fb I’m sure you would have seen the amazing project Kate Farrant has taken on board – refitting the old (1971>2011) Russell > Pahia ferry into a floating pizzeria. Kate and helpers has spent the past year restoring the 57’, built in 1960 by Deemings Bros – BAY BELLE and recently relaunched her. Link below to a Jan 2024 story from when she was 4sale, lots of photos https://waitematawoodys.com/2024/01/28/bay-belle-party-boat/

At this stage the plan is to base the pizzeria at Rakino Island this summer. And before you comment that there is already one ashore in Woody Bay, the superb pizzeria run by Alf Newton sadly closed permanently at the end of summer 2025. As I have mentioned on WW they were the best pizzas in Auckland.  So its exciting news to learn of Kate’s enterprise – but, big shoes to fill to equal Alf’s creations 🙂

WW has been contacted by a friend of Kate’s Josh Chapman who is in the process of documenting (video) Kate and BAY BELLE’s story and is keen to learn more about the boat’s history. Josh has made a short video to give us a sneak peek at the project.

So woody if you have any information on BAY BELLE, or know of anyone who was involved in building her back in the early 1960s?  leads to former crew, builders, or families connected to her history Josh would like to hear from you – joshchaps78@gmail.com

When Kate’s finished the fit out and up and running we will let you know. I can see a Classic Woodys Cruise to Rakino to celebrate the launch of summer 😉

And below is a reminder of how good Alf Newton’s woody Bay Pizzeria was – make sure you play the video – enjoy https://waitematawoodys.com/2021/01/08/surprise-and-delight-on-rakino-island/