WHARF EXTENSION.

Hawke's Bay Herald, Volume 12, Issue 898, 7 December 1867, Page 2

WHARF EXTENSION.

Yesterday, the New Government Wharf was completed. It occupies the exact site of the old wharf, but is 20 inches higher. Its total length is 67 feet, aud its shape like that of a T j the iuner part being 43 feet long, by 16 in breadth, while the head of the T is 40 feet 6 inches long, by 24 feet wide. It is substantially built on 20 totara piles, each 24 feet long, twice coated with tar, and driven 12 feet. The beams and head-stock are of matai, and the planking 4| inch heart of kauri. The iron fastenings are 7-inch spikes — the same as were used in the Ngaruroro Bridge — two in each beam, provided by E. Groves, Spit, who obtained the contract for them. It is also, we believe, intended to construct a waterman's stairs, which will be felt as a great convenience. The position, however, lias not yet been decided upon. The approach to the wharf has been raised two feet, the incline commencing at the main street. The work of adding to the private wharf of Messrs. Watt Brothers is also close upon completion. The original dimensions of this structure were 25 by 14 feet. An addition of 15 feet has been made to the length, and a projection of 1 5 feet long has been added to the right, the whole presenting the shape of f. Upon the projection a turntable is to be erected, which, indeed, is the only part remaining unfinished. Previous to the present addition it was found that a steamer could not discharge from both hatches without shifting, but this can now be done. The Government wharf was commenced on the 13th of last month, so that great despatch has been shewn. Although Mr. Sigley is the contractor iv both cases, the work has been mainly executed under the able supervision of his foremau, Mr. Wagstaff, who deserves much credit. Some dissatisfaction has been expressed at this contract having been given without tenders being called for. Into the merits of this question we do not enter ; but we hear it generally said that, without the aid of Mr. Sigley's punt, monkey, and other apparatus, so substantial a job could not have been turned out with the same facility.