Ahoy me hearties! Rainbow's End Pirate Ship ride to heave to after 34 years

Rainbow's End will say goodbye to its iconic pirate ship ride. Photo / Rainbow's End

After 34 years of thrilling Aucklanders, the Rainbow's End Pirate Ship is being jettisoned for a new attraction.

The theme park, owned by Rangatira Investments, says the ride will "swing its last swing" this month.

It will make way for a new development next year.

"The Pirate Ship has been a fantastic attraction that has spanned several generations," says Rainbow's End chief executive Chris Deere.

"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 said there was a lot of nostalgia around the ship. "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 the ship will be on Saturday, August 19. Rainbow's End will be giving out prizes for the best-dressed pirates on the day.