Gail introduced her son Andrew Spence and together they outlined The late Reverend Dr Richard Spence’s involvement with both the Port of Napier as Chaplain and his dedication and service to the Seafarers Centre.
The need for some shore services has always existed for seamen often away from home for 8 or more months at sea.
This has become even more vital as Covid restrictions allow very little if any shore leave. And the months away from home are even further extended.
Buster Harvey, President of Seafarers, told us how in 1980 three church ministries saw the need for a Seafarers Centre and copying what is done in ports overseas saw to it that a Centre was established in 1983. Richard Spence committed much time to it and as a member of Ahuriri Sunrise instigated the involvement of the club. Funds raised today will help continue the service.
However, because of Covid, the Centre has not been used by seafarers since 13/3/20.
Central Government has provided sufficient funds for an official port visitor who, using a van can go right to the ship side and deliver items ordered by crew members and sometimes provide transport to those who need services onshore. Any time onshore must be escorted and supervised.
Orders for goods come in advance from about 40 ships a month.