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Hokitika Guardian, 24 August 1929, Page 4

Tue so+t-lprs in the Fo'terangi district are somewhat perturbed , about. the threatened ornr-inn by the Hokitika river below the Gorge. There has been

some clanger at the point referred to for the past thirty years or so, and, in the distant past protection work lias had to lie put in. 'Jhe hank, however, has held very well, for it can well be understood, that the force, of the - river after passing through the confined area of the Gorge, has considerable velocity and the extra power is in itself a great menace. The rivers on the Coast and particularly in the County of Westland, often break past where considerable cost has been incurred in checking the danger. Doubtless, the local settlers are keen to see any serious visitation avoided, and they are wise to move betimes. The Koiterangi settlement is, of course, a valuable one, and it is not desirable in any case that good river-bed land should be lost if it is at all possible to save it at a reasonable cost. It is well that any threatened river erosion should be taken in hand at the earliest possible .moment. To procrastinate in such matters is not economy by any means, ns has been the experience of various settlements up and down the district. ’ The inspection of the danger point has long been promised but for one reason and another deferred. It is well, therefore that the settlers have organised their forces and ' secured the promise of an early visit. The inspection takes place on Monday, and no doubt many of the settlers will show a practical interest in the situation by attending in person. The security of the settlement affects all, for all the properties' are more or less depreciated in value if ' adjacent lands are affected by erosion or river encroachment. Naturally those with river frontages are the most directly concerned, but a ravaging riv-, er can affect values over a wide area when it shows signs of growing beyond control. In tho present instance, by unity of action and'prompt attention to what is considered necessary, the risk involved may be greatly minimised. In fact, as was the case at the Big Wanganui and elsewhere, the danger can be removed, and a solid protection' provided to withstand nnv ordinary flooding or serious erosion. Tt is verv good of the Member for Westland, Mr O’Brien, to give his personal attention to the matter and find time .to v’Vt the seat of danger while Parliament is' in session. The settlers 1 will appreciate this special interest, and if on top of the action the Member can secure adequate attention to what appears to be a pressing danger, he will more than ever earn the gratitude of those affected.