TELEGRAMS.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 16003, 20 February 1914, Page 6

TELEGRAMS.

!Pir Unitcu Pittas Association.)

AUCKLAND, February 19. The first sod id' the branch railway to Wuiitlcu was umiod this afternoon by tho Prime Minister before a very large and enthusiastic gathering of residents of tho district. This i« understood to be the first occasion on which Mr Massey olheiolly turned the sod of a railway.

HASTINGS, February 19. By 696 vote*; to 80 the ratepayers yesterday sanctioned a loan oi' £6tf,2bo for street improvement, electric light, and sewer and water extension. A proposal to borrow £27,500 for the erection of municipal buildings and a theatre was carried by b32 votes to 146.

GHRISTCHURCII, February 19,

Many more trees are dying in the city avenues in consequence ol an escape from the gas mains. The authorities threaten proceedings against the Gas Company.

TTMARU, February 19. The garden fete aid fund for improving the pant netted £416. At a public meeting to-night it was decided to invite the Fire Brigades' Association to hold the 1915 demonstrations at Timaru.

The Regimental Band is to be given a complimentary banquet on Thursday.

iFbom Our Own Correspondent.) GREYMOUTH, February 19. At the Warden's Court, Reef ton, this morning, Mr Hewitt, warden, gave judgment in the action brought by the Inspector of Mines against A. M'Gruer, charged with permitting a winding engine to bo worked without an adequate brake The defendant .was fined £20, solicitor's costs (£5 ss), and witnesses' expenses.