WHAREPOA FERRY.

Thames Star, Volume LIX, Issue 16736, 12 March 1926, Page 5

WHAREPOA FERRY.

OBJECTION TO CLOSURE

TRAVELLERS CONCERNED

“DUCK-SHOVING” ALLEGED. There seems to be a difference of opinion as to whether it is altoyetiier a wise move to close the Wharepoa fen y. Last week a deputation of Wharepoa settlers strongly protested to the Thames County Council against the removal of the ferry, and this is now backed by several travellers to regularly motor from Auckland. They say they have been accustomed to crossing at Wharepoa at any hour at a very nominal charge, and will now be forced to use the Kopu ferry, where the charge for motors is heavier, particularly after 0 p.m. One traveller opined that if it is decided ‘to close the ferry, motorists may consider it more advantageous to proceed to Paeroa, especially now that liquor licenses will soon be restored. 'Control.

The ferry is jointly owned by the Thames and Haurnki Plains County Councils, with the latter as the controlling body. A few weeks ago the Plains Council waited on the Thames Council, and asked for an expression of opinion as to whether the ferry should be closed. The Thames Council intimated that it was not very keen on running the ferry at a loss, and agreed to abide by any decision the Plains Council might consider advisable.

At this week’s meeting of the Plains Council, surprise was expressed itt the attitude of the Thames County Council in practically promising the Wharepoa deputation that the ferry would be reopened, provided the settlers could find the money'to run it, aivL’maintain the roads leading to it. „ ' “Duck-Shoving.”

At least three Plains : councillors strongly advocated its removal forthwith. . ' Cr Miller wondered if the Thames half could be shifted.

Cr Mayn did not think so. 1-Ie thought it would sink. Other members contended that it was plain to them that the Thames Council was doing a little “duck-shoving.” They wanted the ferry out of the way, butpreferred the Hauraki Council to accept the responsibility. It was ultimately decided to instruct the engineer to close the ferry.