GOOD CONDITIONS AT ISLANDS

Southland Times, Issue 25641, 7 April 1945, Page 3

GOOD CONDITIONS AT ISLANDS

Landing Of Muttonbirders

“During all my experience I have never seen conditions better for the landing. It occupied only two days. If the weather had been indifferent at all we might have taken a fortnight to land the natives,” said Captain H. J. Roderique last night, when speaking about the landing of the muttonbirders at the islands. Captain Roderique added that from what the natives had told him he understood that the birds were plentiful and in good condition. The Wairua, which was used for the trip, left Bluff under the command of Captain M. M. McArthur at 6.30 p.m. on Tuesday. Captain Roderique acted as pilot and supervised the landing. The ship carried 120 natives and 130 tons of cargo. She returned to Bluff yesterday. The Kekeno also went to the islands and took a great deal of the gear. She also returned to Bluff yesterday. Captain Roderique said last night that if the Kekeno or a vessel of her size had not been there it would have been almost impossible to do the job because the Wairua could not have got near enough to cast the gear ashore. He had been very lucky in having the conditions so suitable for the bigger vessel. “I would like to take the opportunity of thanking Captain McArthur and his crew for their assistance,” said Captain Roderique. He added that Captain McArthur had performed his duties in a first-class manner and had helped in every way possible. Muttonbirds brought back by the Wairua were on sale in Bluff yesterday.