OTAKI NOTES

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXVI, Issue 8182, 25 July 1912, Page 3

OTAKI NOTES

EEOM OUB OWN COEEIiSPONDENT. Jnly 24. To-day was probably the wettest and coldest day experienced in Otaki this winter, and rain, of a heavy nature, fell consistently throughout the day. There were momentary glimpses of sunshine, which revealed the fact that snow had fallen on the hills. In some places areas of land were flooded, while in occasional patches water flowed freely across the footpath. Tho Otaki river is also carrying much water, while all the streams in the district are flowing rapidly. In consequence of the bad weather all hockey matches were postponed—the first occasion during the season. A narrow escape from drowning occurred on Monday afternoon off the local beach. Messrs P. B. Anderson and J. Livesey had spent tho day ip fishing in a light boat, and after catching a large number of fish started to return. On encountering the bar there was a heavy swell and the light craft became swamped and capsized. Mr Anderson was thrown clear, and after much energy reached the shore in a thoroughly exhausted condition. Mr Livoeoy was unfortunate enough to get his coat entangled in the rowlock, with the boat a complete covering. After much exertion, during which time Mr Livesey was nearly drowned, he freed himself, but his energy was almost fully spent, and he could scarcely keep afloat till the axrivAl of three natives in a boat. With difficulty they hauled him in. Mr Livesey then lapsed into unconsciousness, and it was some time before he recovered. The fish and the fittings to the boat were lost. Thieves entered the shop of Messrs Howell and Co. last night and stole several choice joints of meat, etc. As there is a clue to the purloiners, court proceedings aro likely to follow.