NORTHERN HIGHWAY.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20288, 22 June 1929, Page 15

NORTHERN HIGHWAY.

WAIWERA BRIDGE APPROACH.

BAD STATE OF FILLING.

Numerous complaints concerning the condition of a filling at the approach to the Waiwera Bridge on the highway between Waiwera and Puhoi, have been received lately from motorists. .An inspection was carried out yesterday by the touring manager of the Auckland Automobile Association, Mr. R. E. Champtaloup, who reports that the majority of drivers cannot get northwards to Puhoi.

Tho route is obstructed by the partlycompleted filling, and Mr. Champtaloup states that there are no evidences • of effort to afford relief. This was regrettable in view of the effort which had been made to provide an all-weather surface between Auckland and Waiwera. The blockage at this bridge was the only obstacle to access through to Puhoi. Rain had converted the filling over the old bridge approach to a quagmire, and although service car 3 were travelling across, many vehicles with small clearance could not pass.

More intensive maintenance was required on the Waiwera Road and Mr. Champtaloup expressed the opinion that chains woultfr be required to-day on the Waiwera) Hill by drivers not accustomed to clay conditions. The surface fortunately dried rapidly and if gravel were spread lightly it would remove any terrors which the road might have for the novice. The Automobile Association is making representations to the Main Highways Board. Tho direct route from Dcvonport to Waiwera through Red Vale and Silverdale is impassable, the all-weather access being by tho main highway through Albany.