WHANANAKI.

Northern Advocate, 6 May 1914, Page 2

WHANANAKI.

(Own Correspondent.)

WEATHER,

The weather here has been extremely boisterous, making those who occupy more sheltered positions very thankful for small mercies. On Friday and tp-day (2nd inst.) the weather has been from the south-west, and cold showers broken by fitful gleams of sunshine now and then seem io eventuate with remarkable regularity. Being from the south-west the wind strikes the waters of the inlet in opposition to the incoming tide, hence there is quite a little sea running in our usual .calm and peaceful harbour. SHOOTING SEASON. Many local "sports" are bewailing the fact of a closed season. Birds ire very plentiful, and it is quite a common occurrence to rise 12 or 14 in one's stroll. Judging by the number of detonations from the birds' happy hunting grounds just at break of day one cannot help being alive to the fact that, in spite of the powers that be, the feathered tribes of the air are not going to ibe left in peace. Probably the aforesaid powers will take active measures in the near future. CATLE SALE. The Auckland Farmers' Union held a sale of cattle at one of the neighbouring farms this (Saturday) afternoon. In spite of the elements, which were anything but pleasant, a goodly number of buyers were present. The different lots under the persuasive hammer of Mr Nelson, brought fair prices, although some absolutely "went cold" on the market. Probably the cold weather had something to do with it, GENERAL. The Maori population have been having a week.of celebrations. At such a time as this contractors who are relying upon Native labour are seriously hindred, for while the "spree" is on the Maoris absolutely refuse to go to work, and there is very little white labour to be had. There is still some person or persons in the neighbourhood who borrow an oar or rowlock from boats moored in the stream, and have no intention of returning them. It is no uncommon thing for a person to find his boat two miles up stream In the ma».grov.es. When this happens ttie owajr surmises that someone has toorrawed it and forgotten to drop anchor when he was finished. These are long-felt grievances with boat owners, and the culprits can expect littiie leniency if theyvare caught. ■.