AUCKLAND.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XLV, Issue 2, 13 July 1910, Page 5

AUCKLAND.

Fatality at Whakatane. The Whakatane river bridge, which was damaged by floods last year when in course of construction, was the scene of an appalling disaster last Wednesday, when concrete spans weighing 175 tons, totally collapsed without the slightest warning. Preliminary work in connection with the raising of the damaged portion of the bridge was in operation. Four men were working underneath, and two were on top. A native named J. Herewiai was drowned. J. Henderson sustained a broken leg, a fractured rib, and was severely bruised and cut about the face. C. Johnson bad an arm broken. Others escaped injury. The body of Herewini is supposed to be pinned beneath the debris. Henderson swam ashore, a distance of 50 yards, despite his injured condition. A New Coalfield. Dr. Bell, Government Geologist, reports on the new coalfield to the westward of Waimarino and Erua stations on the Alain Trunk line, that 10 outerops have been definitely located. Samples were analysed from most of the outerops, being taken from roof to floor of the seam. The coal is subbituminous, of the quality generally known as lignite, in scams of 4ft to Bft in thickness, interstra.tified with a great series of conglomerates, sandstones, and impure limestone. Dr. Bell said that the coal is high in ash, sulphur, and water, which are all serious defects. Nortk Auckland Railway. Mr. Stallworthy’s request that, In fairness to the North Auckland district, the accounts of the Northern line should