HARIHARI NOTES

Hokitika Guardian, 26 March 1927, Page 2

HARIHARI NOTES

(From a Correspondent-). Afessrs Mcßride, Smith, Nissen and Purcell forming a delegation from the Wataroa branch of the Farmers’ Union met members of the local branch on the 24th inst. to discuss local transport matters. Air Mcßride explained that his branch favoured, a railway extension from Ross and although not expecting the line to be carried the fill I distanoe at once, they felt that a start should be made. As the Government failed to do this in the past, private enterprise liad stepped in and usurped what was really a Government function. While not blaming privUte enterprise be considered if no demand was made by settlers, the more the private line was advanced the less the Government would lie inclined to take action. Such a monopoly was bad business for the country, for the private line was useless for South Westland transport, as it involved two handlings of goods and the line was not up to Government standard—lienee their refusal to take it over unless big expenditure was made on it. This the owners refused to do. On a previous occasion the AYatairoa hraMelt had placed the matter before the County Council, but with the exception of Air Sea lie,' members had received it coldly. He therefore asked that the Hnrihari branch, if in agreement with the above, would join them in their next appe-al. Messrs Smith, Purcell and Nissen endorsed these remarks. Air Searle, AI.C.C., said he realised the difficulties of the district and was willing to work to whatever end the settlers decided. Air H. Levett said Levett Bros, were ■ keenly interested in transport and urged the construction of a railro'nd but if it would take a generation to complete then motor transport was preferable. After a very full discussion all round. Air Hewer moved that the meeting support the Wataroa branch. Seconded by AIY T hide and carried unanimously. Air Croawcll reported that the recent flood in the Little Wanganui river had made further erosion at Burnside’s property, and »s it was in imminent danger to the Wanganui Flat, he moved that the Resident Engineer should he wired to. ’This was seconded by Mr John Adamson and carried unanimously. With a hearty vote of thanks to the delegates 'and to the chairman (Air McKay) the meeting closed. A visit to the local school was paid last week by Air Wild of the Education Board accompanied by Airs Wild, also Air Bignell (Works ' Overseer) and Messrs Goodfellow and Shannon, contractors for the new school house. \\ o understand that satisfactory arrangements for the school conveyance contract were made with Air Kirby, the present contractor. Tliis is a compliment to the efficient and trustworthy manner in which he has carried out his duties. The consolidated school lias a roll number of about 67, half of whom are conveyed. Aliss Heenau. the relieving 'teacher, has returned north, and Aliss_ Saunders, assistant mistress, has tVken up her duties in place of Aliss Purchas who is taking a trip to England. Her former pupils were pleased to hear from her en voyage.