Pirate Ship ride to leave Rainbow's End after 34 years

After 34 years of thrilling theme park guests, the Pirate Ship ride at Auckland attraction Rainbow's End is to be replaced by a new attraction.

The theme park, owned by Rangatira Investments, says the ride will "swing its last swing" this month, making way for a new development that will open next year.

Rainbow's End Chief Executive Chris Deere explained "the Pirate Ship has been a fantastic attraction that has spanned several generations.

"We have exciting plans for this area, so have decided that the time is now right to retire this ride and invest in an exciting new attraction."

Rainbow's End Marketing Manager Katharine Murray said there was a lot of nostalgia around the ship, adding "the Pirate Ship holds fond memories for many New Zealanders. It's been a ride that parents have brought their children back to experience years later."

Deere said people would be sad to see the ride go, but shutting it was the right decision given the level of maintenance costs.

The final swing of Rainbow's End Pirate Ship will be on Saturday 19th August with the theme park set to mark the day by presenting prizes for the best-dressed pirates.

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