Rainbow's End announced the return of a beloved classic, the Pirate Ship.

The original Pirate Ship was a favourite for almost 40 years but was decommissioned in 2017 due to the limited availability of replacement parts. However, repeated requests from Kiwis asking for its return have been heard and a new and improved Pirate Ship will be ready to set sail in late 2025.

Rainbow’s End signed a purchase agreement for the new ride two years ago, working with renowned manufacturer, Huss Rides in Germany. The construction started in 2023 and the parts – from the helm to the mast – start arriving early next year, with installation of the 13-metre-long ship beginning after the April holidays, ready for the grand opening in late 2025.

Rainbow’s End CEO Susan Mudie says, “The Pirate Ship was a Park favorite for decades and our guests were vocal about missing it. We couldn’t walk past that kind of feedback so started investigating how to bring it back, better than ever. We are confident the new ride will offer heaps of enjoyment for all ages, with some exciting twists to the original.”

The Pirate Ship is a new design, built in Europe, but remains true to the original structure, with additional upgrades to theming and enhanced guest care features.

Key stats:

• The Ship seats up to 50 passengers per ride, which will be the biggest capacity ride at the Park
• The Ship swings 75° to each side
• The Ship will be 13 metres long and weighs 25 metric tonnes – that’s the size of four African bull elephants!

“We’re expecting the Ship’s return will spark a wave of nostalgia among our original guests and we’re excited to create new memories for the next generation of young Kiwi thrill seekers,” Susan Mudie said. “The original Pirate Ship launched in 1983, the year following the Park's opening. It was beloved by Kiwi kids, despite the dubious distinction of being the most thrown-up on ride in the entire Park!”