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New Zealand Mail, Issue 1626, 29 April 1903, Page 15

The strike of masons at Basle, Switzerland, has collapsed. The use of electricity, especially for motor purposes, is increasing so extensively in Wellington that the New Zealand Electrical Syndicate has found it necessary to considerably enlarge its plant. A new 300 kilowatt’ (about 500 horse-power) engine, made by Browett, Lindvey and Co., Manchester, has been imported, and is now almost in position, and coupled with it is a Westinghouse alternator. The new plant will enable the supply of electricity to be materially increased, and will entitle the syndicate to claim that it possesses one of the most powerful plants of its kind south of the line. A 212-horse-power water-tube boiler from Babcock >nd Wi ll cox has also been obtained, this being fitted with what is known as a super-heater, believed to be the first to be used in New Zealand. In order to make room for these additions, the old offices in Harris street have been completely altered, and new offices and showroom have been provided in a twostoried building just erected on the adjoining piece of land. This building, well-finished throughout, and has an excellent and substantial front on Harris street, was designed by Mr F. Penty, architect, and constructed by Mr M. Murdoch. The ceremony of opening the new building for the District High School at Palmerston North was performed hub Wednesday in the presence of a large gathering of parents and scholars, members of the Wanganui Education Board, and the teaching staffs of all the town schools. T!ho school, which vas started some eighteen months ago, in the Presbyterian Schoolroom with an attendance of about seventy pupils, grew so rapidly that an extention of accommodation became absolutely necessary, and after persistent agitation funds for the present structure were obtained. It is expected that before long there will be an attendance of 200 scholars, as m the past six months all applies ti ms for admission have had to be refused.