WANGANUI NOTES

Dominion, Volume 22, Issue 79, 27 December 1928, Page 6

WANGANUI NOTES

COMPLETION OF TURAKINA BRIDGE.

Wanganui, December 26.

The shallows on the left bank of the Wanganui River near the Dublin Street bridge, are again popular among bathers. This locality, however, although tempting, is dangerous for poor swimmers, as the river bottom, although shelving gently in most places, contains several bad holes, one of which was responsible for a drowning fatality last season. There is still no lifebelt in the locality, although one is on the bank of the other side of the river, where no one swims.

With the completion of the Turakina bridge, another important improvement has been effected in the main AucklandWellington Highway. The first motorists to pass over the bridge on Monday were enthusiastic in their praise for it, the new route doing away with one of the most dangerous railway crossings on the road, and also making the old “one way” bridge a thing of the past. The approaches to the new bridge are still rough, but will be given a permanent coat, as soon as the formation has settled properly. Evidence of the prominent part the motor car plays in present-day Christmas enjoyment was easily gleaned in Wanganui over the week-end and yesterday. The main roads carried a large volume of motor-car traffic and camping sites in the vicinity of the city were fully taxed. In addition to the site at Aramoho Park it was noticed that spots on the opposite side of the river between Sparrow Cliff and Upokongaro had been brought into use, many tents springing up at odd intervals along the river bank. Overhanging willows, level green turf and the close proximity of the river provide a site that makes instant appeal to the motorist in holiday mood. Rain completely spoilt Boxing Day, and various outdoor fixtures had to be postponed. The North Island rifle championship meeting will commence at the Putiki rifle range to-morrow. Riflemen are present from all parts.