OPENING THE MAKOHINE VIADUCT.

Evening Star, Issue 11606, 17 June 1902, Page 5

OPENING THE MAKOHINE VIADUCT.

A SUCCESSFUL WORK. MANOAWEKA, June 17. The official opening of the Makohine viaduct took place to-day. The Minuter of Public Works, accompanied by Mr Hogg and Mr Fisher, M.H.R.S, arrived in a special tra n, contd ting of an engine and four carriages. They drew up at the southern end of the viaduct about 10.15. and the Minister at once declared all work stepped for the day, and invited the workmen to take a trip in the first passenger train to Mangawcka. The Minister was than presented with a short address from the workmen, and ho delivered a shoit address in reply. He was fol.owed by Messrs Fisher and Hogg. Durng his speech the Mini ter stated that the work had been carried out honestly, and was a credit to the country, being the largest structure of its kind in the southern hemisphere. The workmen could expect to be kept in emp oyment for some time, but he hoped they would hurry up with the Mangaweka viaduct, ra there were many br dues to be got ready, and further north there was one b’ggcr, hj gber, and longer than the Makohine to be constructed. After much cheering the train proceeded across the viaduct. The structure stood all the tests well, there being no vibration. The Minister and party drew up at the Otara bridge crossing, near Ohingaiti, and proceeded to view the recent wash-out. On arrival at Mangaweka station they were met by a bind, and driven to the town. They then virited the p ace where the low-level bridge used to be, and received several deputations, leaving a gam about three o’clock for I’a.meraton North.