MISHAP TO THE TARAWERA.

Otago Witness, Issue 3234, 8 March 1916, Page 54

MISHAP TO THE TARAWERA.

AN UNPLEASANT EXPERIENCE. AUCKLAND, March 6. The mishap which occurred to the steamer Tarawera after the vessel left Gisborne on Saturday, though not of a serious nature, provided the passengers with a certain amount of excitement. Shortly after leaving Gisborne the low pressure valve of the engines broke, and the vessel became unmanageable. An anchor was dropped. but failed to secure a hold. As the vessel drifted towards the shore, wireless calls for help were sent out, and distress signals were burnt on the steamer. After theTarawera had drifted for five miles, and when the shore was only a mile away, to the joy of all on board the anchor held, and the steamer camo to a standstill. Shortly afterwards the steamer Mako answered the distress signals, but her services were not required. Temporary repairs were effected, and the vessel proceeded on her way, although it was not possible for her to go astern had that been necessary. The passengers by the vessel were not alarmed at the mishap, despite the fact that the steamer had a narrow escape. The weather was fine, but there was a breeze blowing on shore, and the officers were of the opinion that if the anchor had not held when it did the 6teamer would certainly have gone ashore. On arrival at Auckland the Tarawera, owing to her being unable to go astern, had to have the assistance of a tug in berthing.