TRUCK BREAKS DOWN

Press, Volume LXXXIII, Issue 25134, 15 March 1947, Page 3

TRUCK BREAKS DOWN

CHATHAM ISLANDS SERVICE RETURNED SOLDIER’S VENTURE the only truck in commission has broken down and has been sent to the mainland for repairs, Chatham Island is . at present once again without an internal motor transport service. The service was begun a few\ weeks ago by Mr R. P. Kamo, a Maori returned soldier, who had rehabilitation assistance in buying a three-ton truck. Licensing regulations, and wen number plates, did not bother -him because no traffic regulations of any sort apply on the Chatham Islands. The truck bought by Mr Kamo in the few weeks it was in service carted wool for farmers, and did contract work for the Public Works Department. Now it has broken down, and has been sent to the mainland for repairs, and Mr Kamo is applying through the Rehabilitation Department for a replacement. Mr Kamo’s was the first commercial vehicle on the island. There are several cars, all running without number-plates or benefit of third-party insurance; but most heavy hauling was previously done by horse-drawn sled, or bullock-drawn sled.

One project depending on an efficient transport service for its success is a co-operative limestone crushing plant. Plenty of limestone is available, but for the plant to be a success delivery of the lime from works to farm is necessary.

News of the breakdown in the service, while the truck is away for repairs, was received this week by Mr J. S. Haywood, formerly of the Transport Department, who advised Mr Kamo of such details as running costs, and fees to be charged, based on conditions in isolated parts of the South Island.