EXPLOSION ON KETCH.

Lyttelton Times, Volume CXVII, Issue 17077, 28 January 1916, Page 9

EXPLOSION ON KETCH.

CARGO OF BENZINE ON FIRE

[Per Pnv.ss Association.]

AUCKLAND, January 27

.At 7.30 o'clock an explosion of benzine occurred on the ketch Kereru, lying at the King's Wharf, which resulted in a fire breaking put aboard the vessel. The Kereru trades regularly to Niiie Island, and at the time of the explosion had three thousand case? of benzine;-aboard loaded for Gisborne and Napier and consigned to Cranby and Co; Two Nine islanders were very severely burned by the explosion and were taken to the hospital. - -. ■ The fire spread rapidly and still is burning fiercelvj several minor explosions of benzine occurring. The fire brigade and firofloat are pumping water into the ship with, the object of sinking her. The cargo and .vessel probably, will be a total loss. The Kereru is of f)9 tons artel is valued for insurance purposes at £1200.She - is insured for £6OO in the' South. British- office. The owners are T. M.: Jianeouid'.W. F. lifting. The cargo is valued"at £2500. ,•■:•. : - •■