description SS Niagara Overview
The SS Niagara was a trans-Tasman ocean liner operated by the Union Steam Ship Company of New Zealand. Launched in 1912, the vessel struck a German contact mine laid by the auxiliary cruiser Orion near Whangarei on June 19, 1940, and subsequently sank. At the time of its loss, the ship was carrying a significant shipment of gold bullion intended for the United Kingdom. Between 1941 and 1952, extensive deep-water salvage operations successfully recovered the vast majority of the sunken gold.
help SS Niagara FAQ
Where did the SS Niagara shipwreck happen?
The SS Niagara sank in the Hauraki Gulf near Whangarei, New Zealand, after striking a German contact mine on June 19, 1940. The mine had been laid by the German auxiliary cruiser Orion during World War II.
What was the SS Niagara used for before it sank?
Launched in 1912, the SS Niagara was a trans-Tasman ocean liner operated by the Union Steam Ship Company of New Zealand. It carried passengers and cargo between Australia and New Zealand.
Was there gold on the SS Niagara when it sank?
Yes, at the time of its loss, the SS Niagara was carrying a large shipment of gold bullion intended to pay for wartime munitions. Salvage operations over the years successfully recovered the vast majority of the gold from the deep wreck.
Did anyone die when the SS Niagara sank?
Despite the ship sinking rapidly after hitting the German mine, the death toll was remarkably low. Out of the 349 people on board, only 13 lives were lost during the evacuation.
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