THE MAPOURIKA.

New Zealand Times, Volume LXXI, Issue 4138, 28 August 1900, Page 5

THE MAPOURIKA.

THE STEAMER IN, PORT. The Union Company's steamer Mapourika, which was re-floated oil' Mabel Island, hear Picton, on Sunday .night, (irrivecl bade in "Wellington' yesterday, looking none the worse for her enforced sojourn in 'the Sounds. The re-launching of the vessel proved a very simple matter to Mr G. Daniel, who superintended the operation. When it was found that the steamer couid not be hauled off the island, no time was lost in raising her from the rocks .which held her fast by the bows, the after part being afloat in deep water. All the necessary gear was sent across, and.by Sunday afternoon the fore part of flu* vessel bad been lifted about thirty inches—enough to warrant a further trial at getting her off. The Rotomahan'a was despatched to the scene to assist, but it turns put that she was not needed. . The big steamer got into position, but before her tow rope tautened out with the strain, the order full speed astern had been given on the Maponrika, and she at once began to slide off into deep water, to the accompaniment of loud cheering from the spectators and those on board both steamers. This was, about 9.30 p.m. As soon as the steamer was afloat she was taken alongside, the Picton wharf, ami an immediate start .was made to take in the gear that had been used. Accompanied by the Rotomahana, she left soon after 8 a.in., and arrived iiere at 1.15 p.m. The Maponrika is making a little water,. the result, no doubt, of dented plates. She will be placed on the Patent Slip this morning for an examination. If needed, temporary repairs will be effected, and the steamer will then be despatched• to Port Chalmers; in charge of Captain Spence, and there docked for permanent repairs.