VESSEL IN GALE

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23127, 27 August 1938, Page 12

VESSEL IN GALE

MAUNGANUI DELAYED ARRIVAL INDEFINITE dangerous head seas MESSAGE FROM CAPTAIN A severe easterly gale and head seas in mid-Tasman have considerably delayed the Union Company's passenger steamer on her voyage iiom Sydney to Auckland and the time of the vessel's arrival here is indefinite. Leaving Sydney on I uesdav evening, the Maunganui was scheduled to reach Auckland this morning, but wireless advice received in Auckland on Thursday stated that the ship would not arrive before to-morrow.

A further message received by the Union Company last evening stated that the Maunganui was liovc-to and no indication was given either of hei position or when she would reach Auckland. It was estimated, however, that the ship was approximately mid-way between Sydney and Auckland last night. Slow Progress Made The following radio message to tho Press Association was received from Captain G. 13. Morgan, commander of the Maunganui, late last night: "After clearing Sydney Heads on luesday evening, strong easterly winds and head seas were encountered. On Wednesday the wind increased to gale force and heavy head seas were experienced. As the sea was dangerous, speed was accordingly reduced and, as yet, slow progress is being made." The time of the Maunganui's departure from Auckland on her return voyage was advanced yesterday from thiec o'clock to 9 p.m. on Monday. Rain and High Seas The official weather report issued yesterday afternoon to the Government meteorologist from Cape Maria van Dicmen stated that there was a north-east gale prevailing, with heavy rain and high seas. With the gale behind her, a fast passage is being made by the Shaw, Savill and Albion motor-ship Wairangi, en route from Liverpool. The ship was expected to reach Auckland on luesdav morning, but wireless advice received yesterday afternoon stated that she will arrive on Monday afternoon.