It's the end of an era today, as the oldest Interislander ferry makes her final journey across the Cook Strait.
The Arahura has made more than 50,000 crossings and clocked up 5 million kilometres in her 32 years on the water.
Interislander general manager Mark Thompson says the boat's greatest moment came not long after she launched.
"Going to the aid of the Russian cruise ship [Mikhail Lermontov] in 1986, helping save over 700 people," he told RadioLIVE. "She's been a fantastic ship for us."
She will leave Wellington for the last time today at 2:45pm, then embark on the return journey – her last – from Picton at 6:45pm.
"Former crew and staff, people who have fond memories of the Arahura, are joining us," says Mr Thompson.
The Arahura will be farewelled officially by Wellingtonians on Friday with a fireworks display.
She will be replaced by MS Kaiarahi, formerly the MS Stena Alegra, which has covered for the ailing Aratere in the past.
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