DAMAGE TO THE MAORI

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXVII, Issue 8611, 23 December 1913, Page 4

DAMAGE TO THE MAORI

EXAMINATION BY DIVER.

Special to the /’Times.”

CHRISTCHURCH, December 22. In order to make a thorough investigation of tho damage to the bow of the ferry steamer Maori, as the result of the collision with the Ruahino at Wellington on Saturday night, tha Lyttelton Harbour Board’s diver, Mr McLean, was engaged this morning surveying the vessel below tho waterline. Mr Bethuno, inspector of machinery, was also present. The diver reported that everything below the waterline was intact, and tbat tho how rudder had not sustained any material injury, and thij was subsequently borne out by the rudder being givqn a trial. Above the waterline the how allows distinct. signs of the collision, more particularly the stem of the bow. The vessel is, however, watertight, ana the inspector of machinery reported, that she was perfectly seaworthy. After the inspection, Messrs Ander. sons, Ltd., commenced work on bending back the edges of two plates which had been started from the stem on the port side. It is also intended to strengthen the plates by adding a few studs. The work of thoroughly repairing her will probably be a costly item, as it is expected that four plates on the starboard side and three on the port will require to be renewed, while the stem must also be straightened. As the extent of tho injuries is chiefly confined above the waterline, and a* the bow rudder is undamaged, it ha* practically been decided to delay the more extensive and permanent repairs. until the Maori is ready for her annual overhaul, probably in June next, Tho Maori left to-night as usual on her journey to Wellington, and she was practically a full ship. Owing to no berth being available, the Ruahine anchored in the stream tills morning, but at noon the liispec tor of machinery, Captain J. Bane, marine superintendent of the New .Zealand Shipnin" Company., and representatives of Messrs Andersens Ltd., visited her. It is understood that about five plates amidships suffered some damage.