THE RANGATIRA.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 56, Issue 97, 5 February 1936, Page 3

THE RANGATIRA.

HOLE TWELVE FEET LONG. INSPECTION BY DIVERS. (Per Press Association.) - WELLINGTON, February 4. A rough estimate of the extent of the damage to the inter-island steamer Rangatira’s bottom has been made by divers, and the work of patching the holes is well in hand. When this is completed, site will be docked. Mr -T. W. Matthewson (general manager of tbo Union Steam Ship Company) said to-day that he could not yet say when that would be done. The principal injuries that had been located by the divers were a large rent in the bottom of number one hold, running fore and aft a distance of 12 feet, and a number of other holes in the bottom of number two hold. These holes were being blocked temporarily, and collision mats placed over them to enable the interior to he pumped out. No decision lias yet been made about holding an official inquiry into the mishap to the Rangatira. It is explained by the authorities that the final decision rests with the Minister for Marine (the Hon. P. Fraser), who at present is visiting the South Island. Meanwhile, officers of the Marine Department arc making preliminary investigations, including tit taking of statements from those concerned. The officers’ reports will be submitted as soon as possible lo the Minister; who, it is anticipated, will he in a position before the end of this week to decide whether a Magistrate and two assessors should ho appointed to hold an inquiry into the mishap.