DRAINAGE BOARD'S CAMP

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXII, Issue 22231, 4 October 1935, Page 14

DRAINAGE BOARD'S CAMP

UNSATISFACTORY STATE NEW HUTS TO BE BUILT [BY TKLEGRArH —OWN CORRESPONDENT] TE AROHA, Thursday Following complaints from Maori workers occupying one of the Thames Valley Drainage Board's camps, Mr. D. F. Watson reported at to-day's meeting that he imd inspected tho camp and found that the accommodation was far from satisfactory, Tho tens walls were of sacking, and as tho tents wero fitted with tin fireplaces and chimneys the firo danger was acute. One tont occupied by a Maori and his wife had been burnt down, the couple losjng clothing and effects valued at £25. Although dissatisfied tho men hud agreed to stay on for three months, by which time the camp was scheduled to bo transferred and better accommodation could bo built at the new site. The chairman, Mr. F. E. Hushes, considered that three months was too long a period for the men to live under their present conditions and, after discussion, it was decided to procure immediately new iron huts, to be constructed in sections to facilitate transfer to other sites. It was decided to make an ex gratia payment of £l2 to the couple whoso effects had been burned.