CORRESPONDENCE.

Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume II, Issue 98, 20 January 1844, Page 389

CORRESPONDENCE.

TARANAKI ROADSTEAD. To the Editor of the Nelson Examiner. Sir — I observe in your paper of the 16th instant an advertisement signed by " John Watson, master of the Finetta," who informs owners of vessels and others that I refuse to land the cargoes of small craft arriving in the roadstead of Taranalu. The circumstances which provoked this statement are briefly these : — On the 21st of last month, the master of the Enterprise, ] a small coasting vessel, ran her ashore on our sandy landing-place, discharged her cargo, and, taking advantage of the tide, got off again without the least damage. This proceeding was jjafe, speedy, and economical for all parties. A few days afterwards the Finetta, a cutter of about 12 tons burden, arrived, and I requested the master, Watson, to follow the example of the Enterprise, the weather being beautifully calm, and no surf on the shore ; but he would not, although the Beachmaster assured him that it could be done without the slightest risk. Under these circumstances, I refused to put the Company to the unnecessary expense of manning their boats, though I allowed one of them to be used in unlading the vessel, the men being paid by the master. ■ I I have reason to think that fear of being compelled to fulfil a broken engagement to the Company was the true objection to beaching the vessel. In conclusion, I beg to add that I am ready to afford masters of vessels the same facilities as they have heretofore enjoyed, whenever the size of the vessel, the state of the weather, or any other circumstance may render such assistance necessary. I remain sir, Your most obedient servant, J. T. WICKSTEED, New Zealand Company* resident Agent for New Plymouth. New Plymouth, Dec. 22, 1843.