Calliope South 2

On the edge of the sparkling Waitematā Harbour sits Calliope South 2. This isn’t just any berth. It’s a piece of living history, connected to the legacy of the Calliope Sea Scouts. Calliope South 2, marked as ‘C2’, is currently home to HMNZS Wellington. But let’s step back in time to 1921. Captain R. Woods founded the Calliope Sea Scouts, New Zealand’s oldest sea scout group. He named them after the illustrious HMS Calliope, a British warship famous for escaping a devastating cyclone in Apia Harbour. The scouts initially operated from the naval dockyard. In 1966, they moved to a building affectionately nicknamed “The Ship” on King Edward Parade. This building, originally constructed in 1903 for the North Shore Rowing Club, became their permanent home. Imagine young scouts learning the ropes, absorbing the salty air and the spirit of adventure. Fast forward to 2007. “The Ship” underwent a much-needed $500,000 renovation. The waterfront location, while ideal for seafaring activities, exposed the building to the harsh elements. Ferry wakes would literally shake the building! This renovation ensured that future generations of scouts could continue their maritime traditions. The Calliope Sea Scouts have a rich history, marked by jamborees, regattas, and even a visit from Lord Jellicoe in 1922. Their cutter, fittingly named “Jellicoe,” embodies their connection to naval history. Calliope South 2 stands as a testament to this enduring legacy. It’s a link to a century of scouting, a reminder of the values of teamwork, leadership, and a love for the sea.