WORK AT ARAPUNI

Waipa Post, Volume 44, Issue 3195, 25 June 1932, Page 8

WORK AT ARAPUNI

The fittings for th/ supplementary gate in the diversion tunnel at Arapuni have arrived from Scotland, and their removal from Auckland to the site 'on which, they are to be assembled was completed on Wednesday. Work on the installation is awaiting the completion of the foundations in the shaft leading to the tunnel. Apart from the permanent staff, there are 50 men employed. There has been a reduction in the standard (rates of pay for labourers employed by the Public Works Department to 10s a day, and this is the rate paid at Arapuni. About 60 men* are engaged under the No. 5 relief scheme; they are engaged in road work and tree planting. There are many vacant cottages and huts at Arapuni village consequent on the' completion of the restoration work and the reduction of the staff. It is the intention of the Unemployment Board to remove these huts to single men's relief camps. In the power house four units are Operating/ and last vieekj 3,950,1)00 volts were generated. The last unit installed has been thoroughly tested,, and is working satisfactorily at full capacity. The No. 2 and No. 3 units are also operating, and are carrying their full load.

The position with regard to No. 1 unit, which developed vibration on being put into use, is unchanged. It is still being subjected to tests, and is working en a reduced load. It is generating sufficient electricity to supply the requirements of the power station.

Normal conditions prevail at Hora Hora hydro-electric power station, and the plant is generating power at a maximum load.

About a dozen men are employed below the wier at Hora Hora in concreting the surface of the rock to prevent further erosion.