THE MANUKAU BAR.

Taranaki Herald, Volume LXVII, Issue 16448, 31 May 1919, Page 6

THE MANUKAU BAR.

SHOALS IN SOUTH CHANNEL. CLOSING RECOMMENDED. The shoaling' of the main and south channels at the Manuknn Bar formed the subject of discussion at Wednesday’s meeting of the Auckland Harbour Board, being dealt with in a notice of motion by Mr. E. H. Davis, and in reports from various marine authorities. Mr. Davis had given notice to move “that on account of the masters of vessels crossing the Manukau Bar having reported the existence of a new shoal on the bar in the main channel, and the altered position of shoals in the south channel, tho Marine Department be requested, to allow the Hinemoa to make a complete examination and survey of both channels on her next visit to the port, the harbourmaster at Onehunga not having the facilities to properly carry out the work.” Before the motion came up for discussion, the chairman submitted reports from the keeper of the Manukau South Head Lighthouse and from Captain R. H. Gibbons, harbourmaster at Oncliuuga, stating that the south channel at the bar had shoaled to such an extent as to be practically unworkable. Captain Gibbons therefore recommended that the loading lights for this channel be discontinued and the channel closed to all traffic \unril such time as some improvement in the depth of the water was shown. It was further stated by Captain Gibbons that it was the usual practice, of masters of vessels to take soundings on the bar when conditions were suitable, and to report the results to him. Ho himself had on occasions taken soundings, and was satisfied that the arrangements made to permit him to do so were adequate. The Chairman suggested that as the question had already been dealt with fully in these reports, Mr. Davis would perhaps be willing to accept the same as disposing of the question. Mr. Davis refused to withdraw any part of his motion, Mr. Entricau strongly opposed the motion. In the first place, ho said, it was a- grave reflection on the officers of the hoard, who had already dealt with the matter through the Marine Department and officials at Onehunga.

Mr. H. R. Mackenzie said that it was well known that conditions on the bar were constantly changing, and members of the board had every confidence in Captain Gibbons. Mr. Davis, in reply, said when he gave notice of motion, he did not know the matter was being dealt with, and he had not intended .any reflection whatever on any officer, but he contended that a survey should be made as quickly as possible. After further discussion, the motion was defeated, the mover being the only one to vote for it.