NGARUAWAHIA BRIDGE.

Waikato Times, Volume I, Issue 3, 7 May 1872, Page 2

NGARUAWAHIA BRIDGE.

The following is the petition in course of signature in reference to the required Bridge across the Waikato-at Ngaruawahia. We may add that each of the Auckland members has expressed his intention of signing a recommendation that the Bridge be erected under " The Public Works Act, 1870": "To the Hon. J. D. Ormond, Minister jtor Public Works — " The. Petition of the Settlers and Landholders in the Waikato District, Province of Aucldavd r Colony of New Zealand, " Sheweth— "That the township of Newcastle is situated at the junction of the Waikato and Waipa rivers; that the line of ■ the Great South Road from Auckland crosses the river at the township, and-that thus, from its central position, the whole traffic of the Waik'ito District passes through it. " That this traffic shows daily the importance and absolute necessity for a Bridge over the river at Newcastle. " That the present means of crossing is by ferry, which is subject to frequent interruptions from the floods, to which the river is liable, and is at all times dangerous to life and property. "That a Bridge across the Waikato at Newcastle would be an immense benefit to the whole district, by providing a safe and easy communication across a rapid river at the most important point, and would thus greatly contribute to the security, and promote the settlement, of this portion of the Province. " That the District Highway Boards are quite unable to erect the Bridge. "•That the Provincial Council and General Government have been petitioned to erect the Bridge, but nothing has been done in the matter. " Your Petitioners beg to inform you that in 1864 the Government realized upwards of ten thousand pounds (£10,000) sterling from the sale of portions of the township of Newcastle, and that the Government still possess 370 town allotments, and 1,461 acres of suburban land in and around it. And your petitioners respectfully submit that these facts should entitle them to some consideration at the hands of the Government, and therefore pray that you will take steps to have a Bridge erected across the Waikato at Newcastle, under " The Public Works Act, 1870." " And your Petitioners, &c."