THAMES NEWS.

Auckland Star, Volume XXXIX, Issue 78, 31 March 1908, Page 3

THAMES NEWS.

(By .Telegraph.—Own Correspondent.) THAMES, this day. A seven-roomed boardinghouse at Turua, owned by Bagnall Bros., and occupied by Mrs. Kerby, has been destroyed by fire. The outbreak commenced near the chimney, but it is believed that rats were the primary cause. The house contained seven rooms, and was insured for £250. The furniture was uninsured, and Mrs. Kerby is in consequence a heavy loser. A big gathering of Maoris is being held at Parawai to discuss various matters relative to the Native Church Board. The natives have been busily employed making preparations for the event. Canon MacMnrray presides. The Bey. Mr. Buarangi has taken an active part in the proceedings. Complaints are being made that illegal shooting of ducks is proceeding on the Piako flats. Welcome rain has fallen throughout the district, and has proved a great boon to farmers. Feed, which during the drought -was very low, is now plentiful, and consequently the -mflV supply- has increased., Stock as a "whole is in a considerably improved condition, and crops are looking better. In fact, the outlook for the coming winter is not nearly so had as sas si itrs. ____ripate_