Notes from Grey Valley (W.C.). (From Our Own Correspondent.)

Otago Witness, Issue 2437, 28 November 1900, Page 20

Notes from Grey Valley (W.C.). (From Our Own Correspondent.)

November 20. — Mining at Haupiri is at present almost unknown. Many years ago, according to reports, gold was discovered in payable I quantities in some of the small creeks and gullies; but owing to the great inconvenience i occasioned in the conveyance of supplies the search had to be abandoned. Consequently, a , mining township never sprang up in the locality. • Of recent years several parties of prospectors from the neighbouring goldfields have from time to time left to try theii luck in this mountainous country ; but unfortunately nothing more than a little scattered gold was disroverpd. Yet, against this all are of opinion that these ranges will yet yield forth the precious metal in payable quantities. The few remaining early pioneers tell us that there are many striking indications of a beit of rich, auriferous country passing through these ranges in parallel lines with other gold-getting places. They devise plans for fitting out expeditions for thorough and careful prospecting, and express their desire to carry out these suggestions. Still, Haumri's lofty ranges and deep-lying gullies clotned in Nature's wildest forest, lie yet almost " Untouched, unfathomed, and unknown." 'In very close proximity to these ranges stretche.s the upper part of the Ahaura River, and thereon several dredging areas have been taken up. Although 1. , have not personally visited either of these claims, I should ima--gine from the nature of the country that they ought to be highly suitable for this partictilar method of mining. At all events, should the dredging prove ta be a profitable industry on the West Coast there is no' doubt about attention being directed to the locality, and probably a very extensive field will be discovered. The adjacent low-lying flats have been more or less cultivated for agricultural purposes. Cattle-rearing is carried on on a very extensive scale. Indeed, I might add that it is here thatthe choicest of West Coast stock is reared. UPPEB GEEY DISTBICT. Extensive prospecting is still being carried on in connection with the Perrett's Junction dredging claim. I understand great difficulties are being met with, owing to the heavy influx of water and the great depth of wash. Although I have not visited this part for some time, from what I can learn the gentleman in charge is thoroughly efficient for the position entrusted to him, and deserves to be highly complimented on the work already done. The Waipuna dredge is still cutting her way across her claim; but it will yet take some time before this is accomplished. It is with regret that I notice her washings have not been up to expectations ; but I still predict a much better future. Her manager is also being highly praised for the manner in which he , carries out his responsible duties. N anticipate taking a tour around this district Very shortly, and shall "report to yovir columns my observations, which I shall carefully note.