OPUNAKE HARBOUR

Taranaki Daily News, 6 October 1928, Page 9

OPUNAKE HARBOUR

MONTHLY REPORTS TO THE BOARD

The Opunake Harbour Board met yesterday, when there were present: Messrs. T. P. Hughso (chairman), C. A Trotter, H. Young, J. A. Pettigrew, T. H. H. Sincair and R. C. Watson. The works committee reported having received an application from a launch owner for permission to erect davits on the wharf for the purpose of hoisting the fishing-launch. The committee had visited the wharf and had approved of the erection of the davits to the satisfaction of the foreman, subject to payment of a rental of £1 per month.

The weather during the past month had been the ' orst of the year, rain, gales and heavy seas prevailing. Progress had consequently been slow, but the adoption of the air compressor drill worked by the diver had simplified the lifting of the stone near the wharf, thus giving a clear berthage there. Stones of considerable size had been lifted, conveyed and tipped at the shore end of the wharf. A few stones in the fairway had yet to be dealt with and would be attended to whenever the weather was suitable.

The committee recommended that if possible a loan of the county air compressor should be obtained, so that the outside stone might be drilled from the boat, simplifying the blasting. During the time the weather was unsuitable for diving the foreman and diver had erected campshears on the west side of the wharf and were preparing the fenders and bollards.. The foreman reported that a lot of sandgrass had been planted; but' more was required to de. 1 with all the sand drift. The cement shed had been moved to the flagstaff, where it would be available for the signals and flags. The machinery had been inspected. He asked the board to consider introducing the single flag code. It was resolved to agree to the recommendations of the foreman. The single flag method of signalling as practised in New Plymouth was adopted. A native named W, Thompson waited on the board on behalf of local fishing launch owners asking permission to reclaim some land near the breakwater for the use of their launches. The board referred the matter to the w’orks committee to inspect and report at next meeting. In view of the orange-peel grab proving useless for the purpose required, the Public Works Department notified that the hire would be remitted, but the board would have to pay freight both ways from Wellington.