'SS Turakina' versus German Raider 'Orion' 1940

There has only been one military engagement on the vast sea between New Zealand and Australia.

The only Battle of The Tasman occurred in the first year of WW2 between two unlikely opponents.

The SS Turakina a N.Z/British Freighter.

And a similar sized German converted freighter now called The Orion.

Let’s go back to August 1940.

When German Raiders were reeking havoc with Allied Shipping in The Pacific.

---- Suggested Watch Next------
If you are wanting more on German Raiders? As it happens, I’ve done a previous video on the only confirmed German vessel to be sunk in New Zealand waters in WW2. ‘The Adjutant' a tiny mine-layer. Part of a larger commerce raiding fleet. Including The Komet. Hope you enjoy this one.

Recommended reading to add to this story & others: ‘Shipwreck’ by Louise Callan & ‘Black Raider’ by Kurt Weyher

Song in the background is called ‘Storm at Sea’ by Shaun Ward

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[saelaird]

My Great-grandmothers brother was Captain James Laird. Quite the story this is, thanks for uploading. 👍

[donbrashsux]

Another Fascinating story that no one knows about thanks

[benwilson]

Thank you, QQQQ in the morse message meant "We are being attacked by an unknow attacker". The same message was transmitted by the Kormoran when she was stopped by HMAS Sydney, she was pretending to be the Dutch ship Straat Malaka.
The Orion with the help of Komet also sank the NZSC ship the RMS Rangitane

[shanemcdowall]

U-862. Only U-boat to enter New Zealand waters. At least two Japanese subs, carrying small aeroplanes, came here too.

[scottlewisparsons]

Thank you for another very interesting video.