the advertisement indicates the need for better transport links. the st. heliers and northcote land company built a 460m (1500 foot) piet at st. heliers in 1882 before becoming insolvent. however, the tramway connection to auckland was never realized. by 1890 st. heliers had become a popular waterfront destination for day trippers, with excursions running from auckland and thames. moonlight excursions from auckland were especially popular. for this particular excursion the "eagle" and "osprey" boats were used, since they allowed dancing on board.