WATAROA NOTES

Grey River Argus, 18 February 1949, Page 2

WATAROA NOTES

(Our Own Correspondent)

With fine warm weather during the present week, flood conditions in South Westland soon cleared up. Much damage was done, however, to bridges and roads. The Waitangi River struck directly with great force at a mud-bank, three chains of which was washed away. The bank was a soft one and offered no resistance to the strong river current. By Tuesday lambs, timber and cream were all on the road, again, and several car Toads of tourists proceeded to the Glaciers.

Rata bloom is prolific in the south, and local’ beekeppers should reap a rich harvest, as this is the bloom which provides the great bulk of honey in this district. The Government is erecting several houses in the Fox Glacier area for the use of workers on the Road Services. Heavy loads of dressed timber are being taken to the area. A commencement was made on Tuesday with the grading of the main highway by the Works Department. The road has been heavily rutted in places, and the grading will provide a much improved surface for motorists and other road users. The Plunket Committee held a successful afternoon on Saturday in the Public Hall. Despite the boisterous weather, there was a large attendance. Settlers have read with pleasure that the Westland Hospital Board plans to establish a small hospital at Wataroa for this district. This is being done at the request of the Minister of Health, and the project will be warmly supported by all residents of South Westland.