The 'Monowai', which sailed under that name from 1930-1960, was used as a transport during World War Two, but in peacetime was a popular passenger ship, on which a delightful social time could be had. To say one had travelled on the ship merited a certain status! You can see a picture of the interior décor of this ship as it was in 1948 after a post-war refit here . That refit allowed her to carry 179 first class and 205 tourist class passengers, in light and airy cabins suitable for travel through the tropics. But by the end of her sailing life in the 1950s, voyages were mainly trans-Tasman.
Union Steam Ship Company of New Zealand :Union Line. T.S.S. "Monowai", commander Captain F W Young. Luncheon. At sea, Wednesday, 15th February 1956. Cabin class.