Struggling Port of Foxton

Manawatu Times, Volume 63, Issue 81, 6 April 1938, Page 2

Struggling Port of Foxton

APPEAL BY BOARD TO MERCHANTS

A plea for more use of the port of Foxton by merchants and manufacturers of Palmerston North was voiced by Mr. J. A. Nash at last evening’s meeting of the Palmerston North Chamber of Commerce. He said the Harbour Board was up against great difficulties in getting wheat shipments from the South Island and the boat “Foxton” was tied up at Lyttelton. Two small boats brought in coal and cement occasionally. The Harbour Board could not have carried on but for rents received from properties at Manawatu Heads and an endowment. He wondered if a meeting of merchants could be held so that the position could be discussed with the members of the Harbour Board.

Mr. K. Henderson agreed that thfc port should be kept open but the uncertain running of the boat from Lyttelton had made merchants look for other transport. If the difficulties of the bar at the Heads could be overcome, more goods would be brought in through Foxton.

Mr. Nash said the bar was not the difficulty but strandings in the river. The Harbour Board, however had procured a launch and machinery to keep the channel clear. Mr. A. P. Stuart directed attention that as shipping companies had to engage crews for a month at least, they looked for regular freighting for a month, and if they could not get it the companies would not put their boats on the runs. Wheat was now mostly coming in from Australia so it looked as if little cargo was offering at the moment.

Mr. Henderson and Mr. Stuart both assured Mr. Nash that the merchants would be pleased to meet the Harbour Board. They wanted to use Foxton if possible as it was cheaper.