HAWKE'S BAY EARTHQUAKE

Otago Daily Times, Issue 21257, 11 February 1931, Page 7

HAWKE'S BAY EARTHQUAKE

GRADUAL RESTORATION OF ORDER.

LOSSES NOT EXAGGERATED. SPIRIT OF TOWNS REVIVING. “One feature now pleasantly noticeable is the number of smiling countenances to be seen on all hands, and the few remaining women are setting a good example in this direction.” , In these cheerful words, penned in Napier exactly a week after the catastrophe which laid the town in ruins, is epitomised the return of confidence and the revival of spirit of the people of the two towns upon which the blow fell with such severity. Further evidence of the gradual but necessarily slow process of reconstruction is afforded by the withdrawal of the naval forces, the Veronica and the Diomede having already departed for Auckland. The Governor-General and the Prime Minister completed their inspections of the devastated region yesterday and returned to Wellington. That the high tribute paid by his Excellency to the indomitable pluck and endurance of the people is merited will be well understood when it is mentioned that the people of Napier are already looking forward to the time when there will arise from the ruins a garden city, outrivalling even the former beauties of their town.

ADDITIONAL DEATHS.

FURTHER REMAINS FOUND. BODIES RECOVERED FROM DEBRIS. (Pek United Press Association.) NAPIER, February 10. This morning the Napier police stated that the remains of a woman who had hitherto been unidentified had been identified by Dr Mac Lean as his sister, Miss Dorothy Mac Lean, aged 36. The body of a barman, George Denneth, aged 36, had been' recovered from the ruins of the Provincial Hotel., Charred remains were found in the Loan and Mercantile Company’s Building in Hastings street.

HOSPITAL PATIENTS.

PROGRESS OF THE INJURED. (Pee United Press Association.) PALMERSTON N., February 10. The following medical cases among the refugees at Palmerston North have been admitted to hospital Richard Bee, Somana road, Hastings. Mrs Ivy Hastie, 38 Marine, parade, Napier. Miss Dorothy Ada Johnston, 224 Hastings street,. Napier; tonsilitis. William James Grundy, care of Mrs Sutherland, Johns road, Taradale. Ernest Nulvanah, Bowling road, Greenmeadows. Mrs Minnie Hurndell, 2 Lucknow terrace, Napier. Phyllis Jbhnston, admitted from Showgrounds Refugee Camp; tonsilitis. Michael Walsh, admitted from Showgrounds Refugee Camp to Hospital Shelters. Mavis Joyce Watts, 30 Harris street, Napier; scalp wounds. Mrs Elizabeth Black, admitted from Showgrounds Refugee Camp; scalp ’ wounds. DISCHARGED FROM HOSPITAL. The following persons have been discharged from hospital:— Mrs Roma Goodwin, Miss Rona Carwell Cooke, Mrs Mary J. Dumble, and Edward W. Whitten. Sent to Wellington:—Mrs Steele, for Wellington Hospital; Mrs Ruttle, . for private address. Sent to Rotorua:—Mrs Johnston, to go to private accommodation provided by husband. Sent to Auckland:—Mr Jurasovich. v PATIENTS TRANSFERRED. Sent to Hawera Hospital from Convent Hospital, Palmerston North: —Mrs Hopkins, Mrs Berry. Miss Vance, Messrs Palmore, Dunn, Pocket, Abbott. Downey. Watkins, and Le Barr. Sent to Hawera from Palmerston North Hospital: —Miss Roche, Mrs Page, Messrs Bocoek, Stevenson, M'Lennan, Ryan, Drinnan, King, and Murphy. Sixteen of those for Hawera are cot cases. CARE OF THE INJURED. EFFICIENCY OF SERVICES. PRAISE FOR DOCTORS, AND NURSES. - (Pee United Press Association.) PALMERSTON N., February 10. The Director-general of Health, Dr M. H. Watt, during a visit to Palmerston North, inspected the facilities provided for the earthquake refugees here. He stated: “ The Hawke’s Bay Hospital Board realised that private medical and nursing practice was non-existent, and arrangements have been made to nationalise these professional services there until the period of emergency ends. Doctors and nurses have been engaged in their full-time capacity by the Health Department. They have done splendid, extraordinary work. The machinery of the Palmerston North Hospital Board proved particularly effective. No matter how many patients there have been this board has always been ready to take them, or to arrange for their disposal among other institutions. The whole of Palmerston North Hospital staff—-

doctors, nurses, and the managing secretary (Mr Phillips)—have, done excellent work under a very efficient organisation. I cannot speak of their work in too high terms of praise.” The Health Department has detailed Dr Findlay, medical officer and inspector, to supervise the sanitation and general health facilities at the showgrounds. POSITION IN NAPIER. SHOCKS LESS FREQUENT. BUSINESS TO RESUME. STRICTER CONTROL EXERCISED (Pee United Press Association.) NAPIER, February 10. At 11.54 last night" a violent shake, lasting a minute, occurred, followed by a few minor tremors. This heavy shake was the first big one since 9.30 a.m. The, time between these shakes is becoming longer. A few of the women remaining in town are appearing in male attire in the streets.

The following business people announce an immediate resumption of activities: —Briasco’s Umbrella Works; Vulcan Foundry; Nash Motors; Anderson and Hansen; M'Gregor and Co.; Holt’s (timber merchants, contractors, etc.); Peach and Co.; Messrs M’Gruers, drapers; the Lerew Motors; the A.M.P. Society; the Vulcan Automotive Supply; Messrs Kinross, White, and Co.; and the Railway Bus Service. AH the businesses named are using new temporary or makeshift premises.

In reference to Commissioner Cunningham’s statement that women should return, it is stated here that whilst the chances of an epidemic are remote it is advisable to keep all women and families out till the threat of disease has been definitely overcome. Excellent work is being done, and a few weeks should bring about a wonderful change. The control of the authorities is being tightened up, the military having replaced the naval men in most duties. It is now difficult for anybody to get into or' out of town. This action has been taken to prevent undesirable people or helpless women from becoming a burden on the organisation, or multiplying the problems of disease. Even relief workers entering the town are now being detained until their good faith is established, and while no genuine case of a person desiring to leave being delayed has occurred, it requires a great deal of subterfuge by unwanted people to obtain any freedom of movement.

Nerve-wracked people are receiving attention, and are being sent out for a few days. It is stated by a reliable witness that when the first earthquake started there were only two pedestrians between the corner point of the'Bluff Hill and Coote road. Both of these,' women, were carried by the debris from the hill into the sea. One waded ashore, the other got caught between two rocks, but was immediately released. The same wit-, ness also asserts that not a single vehicle was visible on that stretch of road. This suggests that the fear that half a him dred people were buried under the debris round the road leading to the p.ort may be groundless, but it is believed that several bodies are there. Certainly some cars were buried on thi,s section. CHANGES OF SEAFRONT. WHARVES NOW HIGH AND DRY. A most extraordinary position is revealed by an inspection of the seafronc. At Port Ahuriri, in front of Hardinge road, where the sea in storm frequently broke over the road,, the waves are now breaking fully 100 yards from the original place, and the breakwater is said to be much higher than formerly. At the Iron Pot portion of the Inner Harbour the launch steps are so far above the water that they are 10ft above the sea at half-tide. This applies to such an extensive area that rhere is no tidal flow between the piers; but the tide, which normally rose about 4ft, is now rising 7ft. Sand banks have appeared all over the area, and the wharves are now standing on dry land many of fim the nearest water.

Mr Guy Rochfort, surveyor, asked to explain the position, said it was impossible to do so accurately for a couple of weeks. At present they had not determined where the mean sea level existed, and their; decision depended on that in-

formation. Mr Rochfort said ho felt convinced that the earth on ihe waterfront at the port had been raised from 7ft to 10ft. Just how far that process extended it was impossible to say. He had been informed that observers believed that the sea level at Awatoto, three or four miles away, was unaltered. If this were true the slope of the land had been altered. Mr Rochfort, however, was not prepared to assert that the raising process had come to a stop in such a short distance. He wanted time to gain the necessary information. The town beach does not now appear to be further away from the sea wall, but in spite of that the reef of rocks which appeared last Tuesday off the Bluff can still be seen at low water, whereas they were not seen before the big shake. It is expected that the wool, valued at £IOO,OOO, held in store at Port Ahuriri is to be shipped as soon as possible to Auckland and Wellington. Most of it is exposed to the weather, but the rain is holding off, although the wind is in a bad quarter. The Governor-General left for the south this morning. Before departing he took a personal interest in relief work, and ordered many boots and clothing for, those in need of such articles. The rough work of demolition is playing havoc with the clothes of the workers. The last big shake was 11 hours ago, and only one or two minor tremors arc being experienced. THE LATEST MESSAGES. AIR OF CONFIDENCE RETURNING. (Per United Press Association.) WELLINGTON, February 10. Observations at the breakwater confirm the statement that the land has risen from 7 feet to 10 feet. Where good bathing previously existed is now dry land. ~ People who made the journey on foot round the seaward side of the Bluff Hill state that with the exception of about 40 yards the whole face of the hill has slipped down, -and it will take months to remove the debris. Several steam shovels have arrived; and these will be commissioned immediately where' the need is most pressing.

Tobacco, both pipe and cigarette, seems to be growing extremely scarce. ! Three fairly violent shakes occurred to-night, but otherwise freedom from movement has been general. ... To-night the weather is fine and cool, and the sea moderate.

Complaints have been made by many persons of a lack of information regarding the death roll. The explanation _ is that the police will not release the information until they are absolutely certain of the identity of the_ victim, or the impossibility of proving it. As fast as the police are satisfied the names will be sent on, but it is necessary that patience should be the watchword. Further firms which have announced that they are recommencing are Bestalls, drapers; H. Y. Williams, ironmongers, etc.; Rogers and Co., furniture factory. It is expected that the Masonic Hotel will protect its licence, and that a building .will he erected as soon as permission for a permanent structure can be obtained. The Cosmopolitan Club will also rebuild. Both the Masonic and Cosmopolitan were insured against damage by earthquake. The position of the rivers is not so serious as was at first thought. The north bank of the Tutaekuri is damaged for three miles, creating a potential danger, but active steps are being taken to put things in order, and it is probable that the river will be immediately diverted through the overflow channel from Meanee to the sea at the Waitangi River Mouth—a scheme provided for by the board. This overflow channel is already in existence, and the banks are secure. All that is required is the deepening and widening of the pilot channel for two miles. This will give the same fall to the sea, and will cut out four miles of the present course of the river. It is now necessary for all residents to possess permits to be on their own property. This has been done so that people discovered on sections and in holdings will be able to produce proof of their right, and those who cannot will have to answer a few awkward questions. The police patrols are not all familiar with all the people, and this step has been considered essential. The people readily accepted the regulation. One feature now pleasantly noticeable is the number of smiling countenances to be seen on all hands, and the few remaining women are setting a good example in this direction. An air of confidence is rapidly returning, and all are looking hopefully forward to a time a few months ahead when a model garden city will be successfully planned and in course of construction. In the meantime no building of a permanent character is being permitted. The supply of meals is now on a most satisfactory basis. There is plenty of food, well cooked, and up to time. The military authorities have got the production of* meals and the treatment of all down, to a fine art, and there is a total lack of confusion. The queues are sometimes 200 yards long at each cookhouse, but expedition is the keynote, and it is satisfactory to note the appreciation of the diners, who sit all over the park. People are still camped on the seafront, and visitors have no difficulty in securing accommodation with friends. The clearing of the business area is proceeding with'despatch. Three bodies, not yet identified, were recovered to-day. Identification in one case is almost assured. SPIRIT OF THE PEOPLE. INDOMITABLE COURAGE. GOVERNOR-GENERAL’S TRIBUTE. (Per United Press Association.) f PALMERSTON N., February 10. The Governor-General (Lord Bledisloc) oh his arrival by train this afternoon from the earthquake area issued the following statement through the press:— “ After our recent sojourn in the area most grievously stricken by the earthquake disaster 1 desire, in view of what we have seen and heard, to record our respectful admiration of the splendid spirit of indomitable pluck, patient en durance, resourcefulness, and the unflagging mutual helpfulness animating its whole poulation, European and Maori alike, of both sexes and all ages in the face of death, bereavement, and irretriev able material losses. It has made us feel proud to belong to the British race, so happily co-operating in this country and in this crisis with the noble Maori people. The finest traditions and qualities of both have boon put to the acid test and magnificently maintained.” WORK OF RESTORATION. CHARITY LOANS SUGGESTED. GOVERNMENT ANXIOUS TO ASSIST. (Per United Press Association.) NAPIER, February 10. All the members of the New Zealand Cabinet with the exception of Mr A. J. Stallworthy and Mr J. G. - Gobbe are at present in Napier, and met the Government officials and members of the Citizens’

Committee for the purpose of consultation with the Governor-General (Lord Bledisloe) prior to his departure from Napier. After the party had inspected the ruins a conference was held at which Mr 0. 0. Morse, chairman of the Citizens’ Committee, suggested that efforts should be made to raise charity loans in Loudon for the purpose of rehabilitating the. city. 'The suggestion was warmly commended by Mr W. E. Barnard, the member for Napier, and the Mayor, Mr J. Vigor Brown, *

The Prime Minister (Mr G. W. Forbes) said he had come to view the ruins as this was necessary before Cabinet could come to any decision. The people of Napier, however, could rest assured that everything that the Government could reasonably be expected to do would be done. The maih thing they wanted to do was to rehabilitate the town and business re-established, for, failing this, there wduld be a large amount of unemployment, which was a bad thing for the whole Dominion.

Following the conference the Prime Minister and ... ambers of the Cabinet spent some time in private discussion with Mr Morse. Later Mr Forbes met the heads of various branches of relief activity and conferred with them before leaving by car for Hastings and Waipukurau, where further relief activities will be investigated. The Prime Minister joined a special train this evening and returned to Wellington to be in time to preside at a meeting of the Central Relief Fund Committee to-morrow. MESSAGE TO DOMINIONS OFFICE. FINE WORK OF NAVAL RATINGS. (British Official Wireless.) (United Press Association i (By Electric Telegraph—Copyiu . RUGBY, February ,0. Lord Bledisloe, in a telegram to the Secretary for the Dominions (Lord Passfield), refers to the “quiet courage, mutual helpfulness, resourcefulness, and discipline of the whole population, including the Maori race, amid a scene of wholesale destruction and bereavement. He adds: “ Medical and relief services have been organised admirably and are working smoothly. With improved transport the majority of the population have left Napier, and its well-equipped field hospital has evacuated the most serious casualties to other hospitals in the North Island. The unevacuated homeless people are accommodated comfortably under canvas in the public park and elsewhere. Essential supplies are fairly adequate, and the deficiencies, chiefly clothing, are being rapidly made good. The prompt, efficient, and indefatigable services of the naval officers and men continuously from the time of the initial disaster are beyond all praise.”

THE FREEZING INDUSTRY.

DISLOCATION OF OPERATIONS. IMPOSSIBLE TO ESTIMATE LOSS. SEVERAL LARGE WORKS AFFECTED. (Per United Press Association.) NAPIER, February 10. An indication of what the total damage in the earthquake area is likely to be is given by .the fact that the estimate of the loss to the four freezing works in Hawke's Bay is set down at about £1,000,000, although no specific figure can be cited as yet. It was estimated by one man ;n authority at Borthwick’s works at Pakipaki to-day that the company’s loss would amount to about £250,000. The entire works 'are in mine, and will have to be rebuilt. The extensive damage to the various freezing works presents a serious problem at the moment, for no freezing can be done in the district for a long time, and it appears that for the_ rest .of this season, at least, farmers will have to rail stock out of the district for slaugh; tering. The railway line to Port Ahuriri has been badly damaged, and the outlet there has been closed for some time, and there is not even road access to the place where the lighters need to load. Much extra cost is bound to be involved in additional rail and shipping charges out of certain parts of Hawke’s Bay, and it is stated to be doubtful whether it will pay to send certain classes of stock out at all.

There has been a drought throughout Hawke’s Bay for some weeks, and dry weather has been experienced for some months. As a result of the dry weather the amount of fat stock going forward to the works for slaughter has not been as great as in former years, and there will not be such a demand for killing facilities as was the case previously. Although this is affecting the district seriously it will considerably relieve what would otherwise have been a heavy demand on the freezing companies, and as these will be out of commission for a considerable time the position in this respect has been lightened to a certain extent, in view of the fact that stock for killing will have to be sent to other centres.

The question is being asked whether the Railways Department will assist farmers in respect of freights. Although the three freezing works situated within a few miles’ radius of Hastings have been damaged badly, the salvage of a large proportion of carcasses in the chambers was possible and the Railways Department has done good work in the removal of thousands since last Tuesday. On the other hand, some thousands that were on the boards had to be destroyed. The work of clearing the debris has started at all the works, but the amount of complete rebuilding that will be required will not be known definitely until surveys have been made. It is stated that the works at Pakipaki are a complete loss, and that they will have to be rebuilt entirely. Other works are in a very bad way, and the slaughtering for the district has been thrown completely out of gear. The work of taking away carcasses from the works of Thomas Borthwick and Sons (Australasia), Limited, at Pakipaki began shortly after the earthquake. The buildings were reduced to an almost total wreck, and the lives of four men, out of a staff of about 180 men, were lost in the disaster. It was possible to remove about 60,000 carcasses safely, but about 1000 that were on the boards had to be burned. The clearing of the wreckage has already started as a preliminary to reconstruction.

About 100,000 carcasses were in the freezing chambers at the works of the Hawke’s Bay Farmers’ Meat Company, Ltd., at Whakatu. The refrigerating machinery has not been thrown completely out of commission, and it has been possible to maintain an even temperature in the chambers. It is hoped to send these carcasses away within the next day. or ski. There were about 300 men at the works at the time of the shake, and although several had remarkable escapes, none was hurt. The works themselves were badly affected. The fellmongery is almost completely ruined, and one of the freezing chambers was exposed at one end, necessitating the removal of carcasses from that point. Generally, the plant I s in fairly good order. The boilers are damaged slightly, although a part of the plant is run electrically, and a section was working to-day. There were about 2000 carcasses on the boards when the shako occurred, and these had to be burned. At theee works also it is not .yet known exactly what amount of rebuilding will have to be done or what can be repaired. A survey will bo made as soon as possible. The chambers at Tomoana are still at freezing temperature, although naturally no killing is being done. Here also extensive damage has been done, and the works are in no fit state for a continuance of operations. In two days about 30.000 carcasses have been taken away by rail. The machinery is practically intact, although the buildings are unsafe, and will require a survey throughout. There were 280 men employed at these works on the morning of the shake, and all got out without injury except one boy, who was badly burned.

THE HASTINGS AREA.

NAVAL FORCES WITHDRAWN.

VERONICA TOWED TO SEA. NAPIER'S PARTING SHOT. (Special to Daily Times.) NAPIER, February 10. A week’s wonderful work by the navy in stricken Napier is drawing to a close, and the withdrawal of the naval forces started to-day with the departure of the sloop Veronica and the cruiser Diomede for Auckland. The Dunedin will leave to-morrow.

The Veronica, which has earned the gratitude of the whole town, left the wharf at the Point about noon and was safely towed out to deep water with the Diomede following some time later from her moorings off the breakwater. in spite of the fact that i £ was full tide when the Veronica left, she had to be handled with extreme care, as the harbour levels have altered to such an extent that the old soundings have become dangerous. A launch was used to pull the bow out from the damaged wharf, and another launch later pushed it further. Then the sloop was towed stern first to the harbour entrance, and on the way the engines and steering gear, which latter had suffered some damage, were tried out. The entrance to the harbour was negotiated with a little depth to spare, and the sloop headed for Auckland. The departure was not without incident. An instance of the disorganisation of the town was provided by the few people on the wharf at the time of the departure. It was not generally known that the sloop was to leave, or otherwise thousands would have been present to bid farewell to a company of men who had played such a vital part in the relief work and the restoration of confidence. As it was there was only a handful of workmen, young women apparently from nearby houses, and pressmen who have been indebted to the navy for many courSuddenly, as the Veronica drew away from the wharf, there was a sharp earthquake—Napier’s parting shot to the ships company. There was a scatter on the wharf, which is full of deep fissures, gaping at every few yards. The shock was not noticed much on the Veronica, which has had its fair share of trouble. The various tests ‘occupied some time, and it was about 2.30 when the vessel finally steamed into the open sea. , Since the sloop has been in port she has had many strange additions to her complement. It seems that all. the stray cats and dogs in Port Ahuriri, of which there are a great number, have found their way to the hospitable shelter of the wwarship. Members of the crew on their excursions ashore also took back with them numbers of canaries found in cages in deserted houses. All the cats and dogs were put ashore this morning, but the mess decks looked like miniature aviaries, with about 80 canaries on board. The Diomede followed the Veronica about four hours later, and will pick up the sloop on the coast and escort her to Auckland. The Dunedin will leave at noon to-morrow, embarking the marines %vhose shore duties will be taken over by a detachment of special constables under Captain Johnston, and controlled by the Police Department. A detachment of royal marines from the Diomede left the camp opposite the police station at 2.30 p.m„ and were taken to the port in motor lorries. The Diomede put to sea at about six o’clock. Another detachment of marines, under Captain Spicer, will remain ashore this evening and the men will do their last night of picket duty. It is expected that the change over of control will be effected without trouble as the special constables have been co-operating with the navy for the last 24 hours. The men operating the emergency wireless set on shore will also return to the boat to-morrow. The Dunedin will possibly overtake both the Diomede and the Veronica as the Diomede will have to reduce speed on catching up With the sloop. The Veronica is to go into dock at Auckland for repairs. As a result of the warships’ unexpected call to Napier it has been decided to cancel the participation of the Dunedin ana Diomede in the Combined exercises with the Australian fleet at, Hobart. Commodore Blake considered’ that in. view of the calamity which has overtaken New Zealand and with which the cruisers have been so closely associated the projected cruise should not be carried out. The Prime Minister has approved of the suggestion. /

RESTORATION OF SERVICES. SAFEGUARDING RELIEF FUNDS. FURTHER BODIES FOUND. (Per United Press Association.) HASTINGS, February 10. In an official statement issued to the Press Association Mr C. H. Slater, on behalf of the Food Committee gives an unqualified assurance that every precaution is being taken to conserve the food and other relief resources at the disposal of the committee, and ensure that all relief is administered without extravagance. He states that a cash trading system is being evolved. In no case have contributed goods been sold, except luxuries and semi-luxuries, so as to enable necessaries to be bought with the proceeds. Ninety-five per cent, of the relief supplies have been distributed free. The committee and the Government authorities are endeavouring to establish a system by which all in need of relief will be registered as unemployed, and then employed as relief workers at a wage which will suffice for the maintenance of reasonable comfort and for the purchase of the necessaries of life. Nowhere is the force of the earthquake more vividly illustrated than at the bridge which gave communication between Hastings and Havelock North. The joists which suspended the bridge decking over, the old Ngaruroro River measured 15 inches by, 10 inches, and the decking itself consisted of a layer of macadam and bitumen of a total thickness of '8 inches or 9 inches. The bridge collapsed when the first big shake came on Tuesday morning, and a second shake that night completed the ruin. The joists and the macadam and bitumen decking were cut in half as though roughly hewn asunder with an axe. No human agency could have caused more complete destruction. The great joists and other timber might have been so many wooden matches, so far as their resistance to the earthquake was concerned. Running parallel with the bridge and on the same level as the decking was the pipe-line which carried the Hastings water supply from the borough reservoir on the Havelock Hills. The water is pumped from artesian bores in Hastings into the reservoir, from which it is drawn back at increased pressure into the town mains. The pipe line burst, and caused an interruption in the supply, but it was soon re-established by means of pumping direct into the mains, thus cutting out the reservoir. Yesterday the borough engineer and a gang of private assistants completed the work of trussing up the line and welding the breaks in it. Havelock, which until then was without a proper water supply, was again given a full pressure. The work that the men did on the pipeline was not only skilfully and rapidly performed, but provided an example of the best sort of courage maintained under the most nerve-wracking conditions. The line is now supported by railway irons set up in the shape of the letter “ A,” and the ground in which they are standing is soggy and shaky. Wooden trestles were erected to support the pipe-line while it was being repaired, and the men were perched precariously on the tops of ladders or astride the line while doing their work. Owing to their position and the shakiness of the ground below them every one of the

many tremors felt was greatly magnified in its apparent intensity. A shock that would hardly be felt by men on ground swayed the pipe-line and the trestles and the men on them in a most unnerving way. The manager of the local gas company, whose service has been entirely out of action since last Tuesday, states that Tie expects to effect repairs at the works within a fortnight. The mains will then be tested with a special gas. The railway bus service between Hastings and Napier, which has been suspended since the earthquake last Tuesday, has now resumed running between the two towns, maintaining an hourly service up till 6 p.m. The HastingsHavelock North service is running a bus every two hours. There were 13 patients in the Hastings Memorial Maternity Hospital on the day of the earthquake. Five babies have been born since then/ and there are now jive happy and contented patients camped in the hospital grounds. The Hastings Citizens’ Relief Committee has issued an edict that every citizen must register. The committee is determined that only those that were bona fide Hastings residents at tiie time of the earthquake shall participate in the Hastings relief benefits. The body of Mrs Beatrice Elizabeth Lambert, wife of Mr Walter Lambert, Grays road, Hastings, who was perviously reported missing, was recovered from Hannah’s boot store in Heretaunga street.

The body of Miss Molly Wells, aged about 18 years, of 37 Southampton street, Hastings, also previously reported missing, was found in front of the Cosy Theatre. RATIONING OF FOOD. NONE AVAILABLE FOR VISITORS. (Per United Press Association.) WELLINGTON, February 10. In a message from Hastings to the Press Association, Major Penlington, of the special police, states that compulsory registration was initiated to-day for all genuine residents of Hastings and vicinity for the purpose of rationing food and arranging labour. No food is ob-‘ tainable there by visitors or sightseers or by persons looking for work. REBUILDING OF HASTINGS. CONFERENCE WITH MR FORBES. GOOD EFFECT OF LORD BLEDISLOE’S VISIT. (Per United Pre'ss Association.) HASTINGS, February ID, Nearly 100 Hastings retailers and town property owners met to-day to discuss questions regarding financial assistance and the remodelling of business premises. Three representatives were appointed to meet the Citizens’ Committee. Mr French, chairman of the meeting, on behalf of the retailers, thanked the relief workers and expressed confidence in the recovery of the district; . The Mayor (Mr G. F. Roach) announced that only iron buildings would be permitted to be built within the next 12 months, those buildings, of course, being only temporary. The meeting expressed thanks to the Government for its decision to pay out a portion of the cover on properties destroyed by fire. Out of all the grimnesa of the earthquake tragedy have come many stories of humorous incidents. A few nights ago a picket, tired out after a long spell of late hours, fell asleep on duty. By way of a practical joke the other members of his group stole his truncheon. Fearing that sleep might get the better of him next night he tied the truncheon to his wrist. Again-he fell asleep, but when he woke up he found a tent pole attached to his wrist by a piece of string. An event that helped greatly _ in brightening the spirits of the population of the wrecked towns has been the gracious, sympathetic, and practical aid given by the Governor and Lady Bledisloe. They came to Hawke’s Bay practically unheralded, and in the most unostentatious manner toured the stricken area. Their presence acted as a tonic to all who came in touch with them and helped- everybody fo realise that their troubles were also being borne by the whole Dominion. His Excellency wrote specially asking that nothing whatever in the way of receiving him other than most formally should be done, and when they departed this morning it was in the quietest manner possible. One could see that their Excellencies were deeply affected by all they saw, and they made a point of seeing all there was to be A conference dealing with the problems now facing the business people ot the town as well as the residents generally was held at Hastings this afternoon. Among those present were Mr G. W. Forbes, Sir Apirana Ngata, and Bishop Bennett. The speakers asked for Government assistance in reconditioning the town and referred to the payment ot men engaged on such work. _ Mr Forbes, in reply, said the Central Relief Committee would meet in Wellington to-morrow and establish branches in the affected areas. The Central Committee’s policy in regard to the distribution of the funds would be similar to That adopted in respect of the West Coast earthquake. The first call on the funds would be the personal requirements ot people in distress. Then would come the necessity for restoring houses and next the restoration of business activity. It was a big task to restore the commerce of two towns so badly broken as Napier and Hastings, but the Government intended to do its very utmost to assist. The question of local versus Government control would be fully investigated by the Cabinet and a decision given later. As for the question of the employment qt labour by outside contractors they womd be debarred from using outside labour, except insofar as they might have To import specially skilled workers. Cabinet would meet to discuss the whole matter as early as possible. “My colleagues and I are fully determined that everything will be done that can,” added Mr Forbes. Sir Andrew Russell mentioned the problems of the farmers affected by the earthquake, and said that though their position was not a matter of life and death, many of them had suffered material clamage and : would require financial assistance. , . . . Mr Forbes assured him that the claim* of town and country would be considered on their merits. He also assured the meeting that the town would be protected from any. incursion from outsiders seeking tq establish businesses, and whatever goods had already been bought by the Relief Committee for the immediate relief of distress would be paid for out of the funds. The Government Insnrance Office would pay out under its fire policies on buildings which had been destroyed by the fire following the earthquake. For the future the Government was going to lay down a set of building regulations to cover the whole of the Dominion. It would be the Government’s duty to see that buildings were built to stand earthquake shocks. They could, not take the risk of any more disasters such as had just been experienced. He hoped that other insurance institutions

would follow the Government’s lead in waiving their rights under the fire policies on buildings destroyed by the earthquake and subsequent fire. It was, however, a matter for them to deal with. _ Mr Forbes also stated that special consideration would be given to sufferers in connection with the payment of income tax. CAUSE OF THE EARTHQUAKE. AN ASTRONOMER’S OPINION. SHIFTING OF OCEAN BED. (United Press Association.) (By Electrio Telegraph—Copyright.) SAN FRANCISCO, February 9. Captain T. J. J. Sec, Government astronomer at Mare Island Naval Station, ... says that the New Zealand earthquake was caused by the shifting of the ocean bed, incident to the - formation ot an enormous new mountain range in the Western Pacific similar to the Andes ot South America. “ Running diagonally from New Zealand, almost to San Francisco, there is a trough of water about four miles deep. The pressure of the water pushing up the ocean floor in one direction and the leakage of water from the trough into the hot lava below creates steam, which shoves the lava up under the North Island,” Captain See said, adding that a similar condition exists oft Alaska. THE RELIEF FUNDS RAPIDLY GROWING TOTALS. AUCKLAND’S RESPONSE. (Per United Press Association.) AUCKLAND, February 10. The response to the appeal for relief funds in Auckland is represented by the sum of £25,000 which has already Jjeen collected. THE HAMILTON FUND. (Per United Press Association.) , HAMILTON, February 10. The Waikato Times Earthquake Relief Fund to-day reached £3613. OVER £30,000 IN WELLINGTON. A (Per United Press Association.) WELLINGTON, February 10. The collections for the various relief funds in Wellington have now reached a total of £30,747. This sum includes £16,345 in the Prime Minister’s list. I ' . “ \ THE RAISING OF FUNDS. MR HUGH J. WARD’S OFFER. (Per united Press Association.) -WELLINGTON, February 10. “ I don’t know what I can do until I look around, but I am ready to do anything at all,” said Mr Hugh J. Ward on his arrival from Australia this morning. Mr Ward is well-known in theatrical life. He has come from Sydney representing the New Zealand Association in Australia, of which he is an honorary member, in the hope that his efforts will be of use in raising money for the rehabilitation of the earthquake sufferers. Mr Ward added that ho had retired •from business and lie had the time and the inclination to help in gratitude for the assistance he had received during his 30 years’ business association with New Zealand. “ I have come over here,” lie said, “ to do anything I can. I have certain ideas which were very successful in Australia, and after I have observed the conditions here I may be able to adapt them so they will be helpful in raising money for the present need. On the voyage over Mr Ward got to' work among the passengers and crew of the Marama, with the result that £7O was collected for the earthquake funds — £4O from the crew and £3O from the passengers. RESPONSE IN GISBORNE. (Per United Press Association.) GISBORNE, February 10. The Gisborne Relief Funds now total £3600, of which sum £3250 is acknowledged in the Poverty Bay Herald’s list. STATE LOTTERY PROPOSED. (Per United Press Association.) PALMERSTON N., February 10. The Palmerston North Chamber of Commerce is forwarding the Prime Minister and the Minister of Internal.. Affairs a suggestion that a State lottery similar to that conducted in Ireland recently should be organised to secure money to rehabiltate the striken towns of the earthquake area. BUSH DISTRICT GRANTS. (Per United Press Association.) PAHIATUA, February 10. The Pahiatua County Council has voted £250. to the Relief Fund, and the Borough Council £SO. COUNTY OF MASTERTON. (Per United Press Association.) MASTERTON, February 10. The Masterton County Council has given £IOO to the Relief Fund. PUPILS AS FREE BOARDERS. (Per United Press Association.) MASTERTON, February 10. The Solway College Board of Governors to-day decided to take 10 pupils of the devastated earthquake area as boarders for one year free of cost. GREYMOUTH CONTRIBUTIONS. (Per United Press Association.) GREYMOUTH, February 10. The Greymouth relief fund exceeds £ISOO. The Harbour Board voted £250. PRACTICAL GRATITUDE.' (Per United Press Association.) NELSON, February 10. The Nelson College Board of Governors lias offered to accommodate up to five boys and five girls from the stricken area in the boarding department free of charge for one, two, or three terms, as may be necessary. * The various resolutions of sympathy with Hawke’s Bay mention the fact that the kindly, generous, and practical sympathy given to Nelson and the West Coast at a time when they suffered from a similar visitation will ever be remembered. RELIEF FUND IN BRITAIN. CONTRIBUTIONS FROM ROYALTY. (United Press Association.) (By Electric Telegraph—Copyright.) LONDON, February 0. Tiie Earthquake Fund totals £7816. The Prince of Wales contributed £250, and the Duke and Duchess of York £IOO. At the opening of the New Zealand produce display in the Empire Market-

ing Board’s shop, Birmingham, Sir Thomas Wilford referred to the Birmingham people’s gift of £IOO. He said the many who were unable to contribute financially might help the sufferers and their relatives and assist the Dominion through bad times by purchasing its produce. RELIEF FUND IN SYDNEY. (United Press Association.) (By Electric Telegraph—Copyright.) SYDNEY, February 10. The contributions to. the Lord Mayor’s New Zealand Earthquake Relief Fund total £220. The collections at St. Andrew’s Church of England at Summer Hill on Sunday were devoted to the relief of sufferers, and totalled £52 10s. ASSISTANCE FROM AMERICA. RED CROSS CONTRIBUTION. (United Press Association.) (By Electrio Telegraph—Copyright.) WASHINGTON, February 9.' (Received Feb. 10, at 9 p.m.) The American Red Cross has cabled 5000 dollars to the New Zealand earthquake sufferers as “ a gesture of friendship ” following the receipt of the following telegram from the New Zealand Red Cross: “Damage to life and property extensive. Glad to accept co-oper-ation.” RAISING FUNDS IN DUNEDIN. CANVASS OP BUSINESS COMMUNITY. Following the meeting of various organisations in the city last Friday to consider means of raising funds for earthquake relief, Mr A. C. Cameron, chairman of the. special committee then appointed, reports that about 40 organisations have been communicated with, and the replies to hand are of a satisfactory nature. Steps are being taken to make personal appeals to the members of each organisation, and the committee has every reason to believe that a thorough canvass of every section of the business community will be completed this week. A number of bodies which do not come under the heading of any particular organisation may be missed, and the sub-committee would like if any such would send donations direct to the Otago Daily Times Fund or the Mayor’s Fund. The sub-committee will meet tomorrow to consider what further steps can be taken.

Mr J. Farrell, who is at present in Dunedin,, has received word from the directors of Messrs J. C. Williamson, Ltd. (Sydney), that half of the profits of the New Zealand tour of the pantomime, “The House that Jack Built,” are to be devoted to the Earthquake Fund. The company commences its Dunedin season on Thursday, February 19. On Saturday afternoon next the Otago Motor Club will hold a series of motor cycle races at Tahuna Park, the total proceedings going to the Earthquake Fund. The Otago A. and P. Society has kindly lent the ground free of charge, and there will be no prize money. A varied programme is being arranged, which will include grass track races, relay race, musical chairs, balloon bursting, obstacle race, and several other interesting events. Altogether an extremely interesting and varied afternoon’s entertainment should be provided.

At a special meeting of the New Zealand Company of Master Mariners held yesterday it. was decided to grant £SO to the Otago Daily Times Belief Fund. It was further decided that if any expert knowledge is required in the way of repairing the port of Napier for safe navigation the Company of Master Mariners will be pleased to give its best assistance. Cabled information has been received by Messrs Maling and Co’., Ltd., Christchurch, that the proprietors of De Reszke Cigarettes will contribute 500 guineas to the Earthquake Relief Fund. At the monthly meeting of the South Otago Hospital Board,, which was held at Balclutha yesterday, the chairman (Mr Adam King) referred to the disastrous earthquake in Hawke’s Bay, and asked the members of the board to stand as a mark of respect to those who ,had_perished. It was decided, to grant £25 towards the relief of distress, and to send to the Mayors of Hastings and Napier messages expressing the board’s sympathy with the sufferers. The Commercial Travellers and Warehousemen’s Association’s effort in respect to earthquake relief is to take the form of a house-to-house canvass, in support of which every householder in the city will be circularised. Representations have been made .to the Postmastergeneral (Mr J. B. Donald) in respect to a free delivery of circulars by the postal department, and word was received last night that the Minister had agreed to grant the request. This concession will mean a saving of from £4O to £SO. The date of the canvass, which will be for cash, is Saturday, February 14. PORT CHALMERS. The following subscriptions increase the Relief Fund total at Port Chalmers to £275:—Mr and Mrs G. F. Mirams, £3 3s; M. Cottle, £1; W. M. Fairbairn, £1; J. Osborne, sen., 10s; J. Osborne, jun., ss; “A Sympathiser,” £2; F. R. Fordham, £1; A. M'Lachlan, £1; J. M. Harland, £1: R. Robertson, 10s 6d;-M. M ss; D. Forsyth, £1 Is; H. Freeman, £ls J- H- H., £1; A. 8., fl; W. B. Morgan, £1 Is; D. Grant, £1; J. W. M'Kenzie, £2; I. and E. Mackie, f-; N. and W. Miller, £1; D, Howatson, £1; W. S. Culbert, £1; E. Kelleher, 10s; E A Ward, £1; employees of Stevenson and Cook, £2O 12s; Queen’s Drive Boating Club, £2 2s; Miss G. M. Perry, £1; Borough Council, £SO; C. Rose, £1; C. O. Knewstubb, £1; ■ Deep Dean, £1; F. Taylor, £1; E. S., £1; H. S. Watson, £1 ■ Mrs F and family, £2; Mrs Hutchen, 10s; K. G. Roy, £1; Mrs R. D. Jack, £1; E. A. M'Ewan, £10; Mrs W. Peters, £l. “ Wellwisher,” ss; Port Chalmers Rowing Club, £2 2s; “A Sympathiser,” ss; J. H. C., £l. In reply to a message of sympathy the Mayor of Port Chalmers (Mr W. G. Love) has received the following telegram from the Prime Minister: “Tour kind message of sympathy from residents of Port Chalmers is deeply appreciated, and it will.be conveyed to the sufferers in the stricken area, together with your generous offer of assistance.” Mr Vigor Brown, Mayor of Napier, has also acknowledged with thanks a similar message of sympathy and offer of help. CENTRAL RELIEF COMMITTEE. In reply to a telegram from the Prime Minister (Mr G. W. Forbes) the Mayor (Mr R. S. Black) stated that he would be unable to attend • the- initial meeting in Wellington of the Central Committee for Earthquake Relief, but that he would be able to attend subsequent meetings. Mr Black added that he hoped the Central Committee would visit the stricken area, and thus get a better perspective of what was required. He greatly appreciated the way in which the people of Dunedin were contributing to the relief funds. DISPLACED BUTCHERS. TRANSFER TO WAINGAWA WORKS. (Per United Press Association.) WELLINGTON, February 10. It is reported that 50 of the butchers who have been displaced through the demolition of . the freezing works in Hawke's Bay. will arrive in Wellington this evening en route for the Waingawa works. .... ■ . .. ■!. (Continued on page 8.)