THE FLOODED MINE.

Auckland Star, Volume XLIV, Issue 77, 1 April 1913, Page 5

THE FLOODED MINE.

SLOW BUT STEADY HROGRESS. (By Telegraph.—Owu Correspondent.) WHANGAREI, this day. In consequence of a report of a rapid rise in the water in the flooded Hikurangi mine, I visited the mine last night. Mr. Tattlcy (the manager) stated that such a report was contrary to fact.. A stoppage had been caused by loose timber floating into the shaft, breaking the releasing gear and lifting the tank. Three hours were occupied in the afternoon removing the timber and repairing the tank, during which time the water rose Considerably, but as soon as baling operations were resumed the lost headway was steadily made up, and at 11.30 p.m. the water had been reduced over 36ft. At noon to-day it was down 40ft sJin in the shaft. Progress is slow, but steady. Messrs Alison (acting managing director) and Hawkins (director) paid a visit to the mine to-day and decided to install a Cameron pump capable of lifting 16..000 gallons of water hourly. The pump will be shipped immediately from Auckland. Meanwhile tbe manager will continue the present method of baling. It is impossible to say when the mine will be drained till the extent of the underground cavity can be ascertained, but the manager does not anticipate serious trouble in doing so.

A majority of the miners now idle seem to take the view that the stoppage is only of a temporary nature.