HYDRO-ELECTRICAL SCHEME.

Lyttelton Times, Volume CXV, Issue 16551, 15 May 1914, Page 5

HYDRO-ELECTRICAL SCHEME.

LAKE COLERIDGE NOTES. j [From Oun Correspondent.] WHAKAMATAU, May 13 ! The weather has been very cold of late, and hard frosts are being experienced. The plasterers have started work in the tunnel again, and arc mailing good headway, in spite or one serious obstacle, water. There is not a great deal of work to be done in toe tunnel now; but all through the water has boon a drawback to those concerned, and the pumps installed at the intake shaft have been kept going constantly. When boring was in progress at the intake end some months ago, a miniature stream was struct, and this no doubt has been the cause of the trouble. Most of the water is finding its way through to the outlet from the tunnel. Over 100 tons of cement have been used for plastering the tunnel, and there is still a few weeks work in this direction. . . Work under the lake is progressing satisfactorily. Sumps are being dug out for k the water, and huge six-mch pipes have arrived for pumping purposes. These will be connected with a powerful centrifugal pump. It is expected that this pump will be able to cope with all water entering, tho droe. The work of driving has not. advanced to any extent yet, and it is impossible to sav whether the water will enter in a deluge or just a mere The work of concreting the centre shaft is proceeding, and two shifts are now on this work. A gang of men is dismantling winches, buildings and taking up water-pipes at the centre shaft and all material is being placed conveniently near the road for traction engines to load up. S The Y.M.C.A. is still a popular establishment. With games and refreshments, and plenty of good books to read and a warm fire, it has proved a boon to the camp, and is much appreciated by the men.