Port of Timaku. The plan enclosed shows the progress made with the Timaru Harbour works to the 25th March, 1884, the length of breakwater constructed to that date being 1,500 ft. There are at present I,oooft. of wharfage, connected with the main line of railway, for the accommodation of vessels drawing up to 15ft., with a sufficient number of steam cranes always available. Screw moorings are laid down in the harbour for the security of vessels; and lighters have been provided sufficient to carry 150 tons afloat at one time. Vessels are loaded at the moorings to a draught of 18ft. On the plan are marked the best anchorages for all classes of vessels, also the bearings from the lighthouse. The services of the p.s. " Titan," a powerful disconnecting tug, the property of the Harbour Board, can be secured at any time at moderate charges.

The following returns for the year 1883 will illustrate the importance of the trade at this port: Number of vessels despatched to the United Kingdom and Cape Colony during 1883 ... ... ... ... ... ... . . 20 Vessels despatched to intercolonial ports ..; ... ... ... 14 Vessels despatched coastwise ... ... ... ... 235 Number of vessels worked at the wharf ... ... ... ... 218 Vessels may rely on being boarded when nearing the port, and every effort is used to further the interests of snipping. Eeports on the progress of the harbour works, with sailing directions, can be had on application at any Customhouse in the Australian Colonies, and will be mailed free to any person interested in the shipping trade, on application to the Secretary of the Timaru Harbour Board. W. J. Tennent, Timaru, 2nd April, 1884. Secretary.

TIMARU HARBOUR PROVINCE OF CANTERBURY N.Z. GENERAL CHART OF Timaru and adjoining Coast SHEWING WORKS COMPLETED March 25th 1884.