Discover Paddy's Story
Meet Paddy, the Airedale Terrier who captured the hearts of Wellington's waterfront community in the early 20th century. Originally named Dash, he lost his young owner in 1928 and found a new home among the sailors, dock workers, and cabbies who frequented the wharves.
Adopted by this colourful waterfront crew, Paddy was affectionately given the title 'Assistant Night Watchman In Charge of Pirates, Rodents, and Smugglers.' With his keen intelligence and adventurous spirit, Paddy became a familiar sight at ports across New Zealand, and some say he even made it as far as San Francisco. No matter how far he wandered, Paddy always found his way back to Wellington.
When Paddy passed away in 1939, the entire community came together to give him a heartfelt send-off, with a procession of taxis that brought downtown Wellington to a standstill. Today, we honour his legacy with a memorial at the New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts and a statue at the Wellington Museum.
Support Our Museum
Take home your very own Paddy the Wanderer stuffed toy or make a donation to help keep his extraordinary story alive at the Wellington Museum. Your support means the world to us – and to Paddy's enduring spirit. Thank you!
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Emily
I grew up hearing the heartwarming tales of Paddy the Wanderer – a reminder of just how special our four-legged friends truly are. 🐾
Josie
I just adore Paddy's story - long may his legacy be kept alive in Pōneke