RESERVOIR BURSTS

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLIX, Issue 80, 4 March 1929, Page 9

RESERVOIR BURSTS

AUCKLAND SENSATION. NOISE HEARD HALF A MILE AWAY. WATERS RUSH DOWN MOUNTAIN SIDE. Per Press Association. AUCKLAND, March 4. Residents in the locality of Mount Eden had a sensational experience at 5.30 this morning when the reservoir supplying a large portion of the city and suburbs burst with a roar that was heard half a mile away. The reservoir, which is situated on the city side of the mountain, contained a million and a-quarter gallons of water which rushed down the mountain side, taking a course mainly along what is known as the drive. The greater part went into a disused quarry, but a huge stream swept down the hillside on to the main road, gradually getting away over the sloping land on either side. The road this morning was impassable for traffic, the tram service being held up and a temporary service was provided by buses. Debris covered the road for about half a mile, consisting of pieces of concrete silt, and workmen's tools. There was little damage to property. In some places the water covered lawns to n # foot deep, but apparently did no other damage. Fortunately there was no body about at that early hour. The rush of water lasted for half an hour and the whole of one side of the square reservoir was carried away.

The cause of the disaster was apparently excavation work for the extension of the reservoir.