THE FLOODED WAIKATO.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 12084, 13 August 1917, Page 4

THE FLOODED WAIKATO.

" WIDE WASTE OF WATER." Tho Waikato Rives is still rising, 'the Mercer correspondent of the "New Zeaiand Jleraiu" telegraphed on Wednesday, and a large area is under water. The Maoris on the river front have bug since been Hooded out, while the Europeans living on higher ground are now shilling their tnnuture. River shipping is held up in many places through the water being close up to tin* bridges. Most of the, railway lines at Mercer station are submerged, causing the authorities some anxiety. Tho shunters are working in gum boots. There, is no hope of the "flood abating until rain ceases in 'the higher country. Lakes Waikare and Raegiriri have joined, forming a huge inland sea, the. railway track bring tn» only kuy.p left clear of water in several places. Land close up to the island opposite Mercer, well known to regatta visitors, has disappeared, and the 'White House, a landmark on the .right bank, is surrounded, by water. A boat can be rowed right up to the front door. A number of other houses are in a similar condition. Water is creeping in on the State. Farm at To, Kamvhuta. Between Mercer and Iluntly the Main Sou:h Road is under water in places, and is impassable for motor traffic. The river is about <ift above, its normal level at Ngaruawahia.