It was a coming of age of sorts but it was a very special way to celebrate Graeme Pointon's birthday on Saturday.
Mr Pointon has turned 65 and to mark the occasion, his wife Joy organised a special trip on the MV Wairua for about 30 family members and friends.
Pictured, pipers Joy Pointon (left) and Ross Duncan pipe Graeme Pointon (right) aboard the MV Wairua. Wairua skipper Dave McDermid is at the helm.
The charter took guests from the Taupo Quay jetty to Upokongaro for lunch at the Avoca Hotel before returning about 3.30pm.
PHOTO/BEVAN CONLEY