34

E.—l

Hurunui-Greta Bridge. —The contract for this bridge was let in August last, and it should be finished in October, but work is falling somewhat behind; it will scarcely be ready in time. The bridge, which is of timber, consists of five spans of 80, two of 26, and two of 24 feet. Bakaia Gorge Bridge.— This is an iron bridge, intended for road and railway traffic. It is to have one span of 180 feet, resting on masonry piers. The ironwork has been imported, and tenders are now called for its erection. Rangitata Road Bridge: Protective Works.— The works executed prior to December last were very much damaged by a heavy flood that occurred in that month ; so it was necessary to restore them and increase their strength. This has now been done in what seems to be an effectual manner. Hurunui Carl Bridge: Repairs.—T\xm bridge, originally weak and lately injured by floods, has been strengthened and repaired. Lyttelton Harbour Works. —The Gladstone Wharf and Screw-pile Jetty extensions have been completed during the past year. Malvern Waterworks. —This work is now finished, and, so far as it goes, is a success. The headworks seem to answer very well. Buildings. —In addition to the foregoing, the officers of this department, throughout the Island, have had the general supervision of the Colonial Architect's works, which has taken up a considerable part of their time.

SUEVEYS. The work performed during the past year on surveys of main and branch railway lines has been of an unusually extensive and important character, consequently it is made the subject of a separate and special report.

MAP. A Map of the Middle Island, showing the state of the works and surveys is hereto, appended. I have, &c, W. N. Blair, Engineer in Charge, Middle Island.