FLOODS IN AUCKLAND

Otago Daily Times, Issue 13830, 18 February 1907, Page 2

FLOODS IN AUCKLAND

AUSTRIAN'S' CAMP WASHED AWAY. THREE MEN MISSING. (Pa* United Press Assocutios.) AUCKLAND, February 16. A report from Great Barrier states that tho floods this week overwhelmed a but occupiod by Austrian gumdiggers, throe of whom -ffovo washed away, and, it is feared, drowned. 0110 man escaped. Tbo camp was pitchcd on the bank of a crook on tho island, between Blind Bay and Whakapnra. The week rose vory rapidly as tho result, of tho downpour on Wednesday and Thursday, and undermined the camp, which, without warning;, was engulfed in tho swollen torrent. Four Austrians wore in the camp at tbo time, and all were prccipilatcd into tho stream. Three were carried away, and it is feared they were drowned. Tbo fourth managed with difficulty to reach tho bank and struggle out. Ho made a rapid and diligent search for his companions, but without success. Ho then went to Blind Bay, whero ho saw Constablo Johnson, who organised a search party in tho hope of finding'some of tho unfortunate men still alive. 1

DARGAVILLE, February 16. Thcro aro numerous washouts on the Kaihu line, and portions are submerged Train communication is still suspended. The (own bridgo at Kaihu is badly damaged and the Pangatororia wharf has boon carried away. Considerable damage has been dono at tho Tutawoo bush workings.