A historic speedboat has been temporarily removed from its new display near the updated Hall Street Pier due to what the city says are mechanical issues with the structure.
The Ladybird, which was built in 1922 and retired in 1966 after over 30 years of racing and a world speed record, had been installed within a glass, temperature-controlled case this summer to coincide with what the City of Nelson says is a soft opening of the redesigned pier.
Chris Johnson, the city's general manager of community planning, climate and infrastructure, told the Nelson Star in an email that the display requires mechanical balancing to its heating, cooling, moisture control and air-handling.
He added the pier area is still unfinished and will continue to receive extra pieces such as seating and plantings through to spring 2025.
The pier project cost $4.7 million and was funded by $1.5 million in grants and a further $3.2 million from the city's financial reserves. The boat display was estimated to cost $426,000 in 2021 when it was proposed. The Nelson Star has requested an updated total cost for the structure from the city.
