49

D.—1.

APPENDIX K

ANNUAL EEPOET ON LIGHTHOUSE WOEKS, ETC., BY THE MAEINE ENGINEEE.

The Marine Engineeb to the Seceetaey, Marine Department. Sib,' — Marine Department, 31st March, 1887. I have the honour to forward, for the information of the Hon. the Minister having charge of the Marine Department, the annual report on works executed for new lighthouses, and on other works during the year. Gitvier Island. —The lantern and lighting-apparatus for this lighthouse has been received in New Zealand. I was on the point of starting from Wellington for Ouvier Island to lay off the reserve for the lighthouse and the sites for the tower and dwelling-houses, &c, when I received an order to proceed south to Oamaru, to inspect and report on the damage to the breakwater at that place, and since that time no favourable opportunity has occurred to visit Cuvier Island. Removal of Snags from the MoTcau Biver. —A further sum of £500 having been voted for this work, a party was despatched about the end of December to continue the work reported on last year. The work is going on favourably, and will probably be finished, as far as the funds will allow, about the end of April. Jackson's Head Beacon. —This work is practically finished, and the working-party are expected to return in a few days. The beacon consists of a solid tower of concrete, well bonded, about 40ft. high above high-water level, with a diameter of 17ft. at the base and lift, at the top. This is surmounted by a stout handrailing of wrought-iron, and by a central staff 12ft. high, on which is a "cage'" of wrought-iron sft. in diameter. The masters of vessels trading coastwise speak highly of the efficacy of the structure as a beacon to guide them safely through the channel between it and the mainland of Jackson's Head. Toi-tois Harbour. —As instructed, I visited this harbour in January, and spent some days inspecting the Biver Mataura and the entrance to it at the Heads. A special report on this inspection will be forwarded to you in a few days. Bluff Harbour, Mid-channel Bock. —After inspecting the Toitois Harbour I proceeded to the Bluff, for the purpose of examining the Mid-channel Eock, as directed. On this subject you will also receive a special report. I have, &c, John Blackett, The Secretary, Marine Department. Marine Engineer