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Opunake
1867 May 28	British Ensign hauled down and Hau Hau Flag raised
1871 Feb 8	Opunake Flax Company

Hawera and Normanby Star
1883 Dec 07	"Our Correspondent"
1883 Dec 14	"Our Correspondent"
1883 Dec 21	"Our Correspondent"
1883 Dec 27	"Our Correspondent"

1884 Sep 08	Opunake Lighter Company and "Our Correspondent"
1884 Sep 09	"Our Correspondent" report
1884 Sep 12	Opunake Town Board Meeting
1884 Sep 23	"Our Correspondent" report

1894 Jan 30	Fatal Accident at Opunake Jetty
1894 Feb 28	Opunake Jetty
1894 Mar 02	"Our Correspondent"
1894 Mar 08	"Our Correspondent"

New Zealand Mail
1904 Apr 06	"Our Correspondent"
1904 Apr 20	"Our Correspondent"
1904 Apr 27	"Our Correspondent"
1904 May 4	"Our Correspondent"
1904 May 11	"Our Correspondent"
1904 May 18	"Our Correspondent"


Hawkes Bay Herald 28 May 1867
In our last issue we intimated that the friendly(?) chief, William 
King, who had received 70 stand of arms and a large quantity of 
ammunition from Mr Parris, had failed to do what that gentleman 
expected. We can now state upon reliable authority, that the British
ensign which was hoisted at Opunake, and under which 70 stand of arms 
and a large quantity of ammunition were handed over by Mr Parris, had 
been hauled down, and the Hau-hau red flag of defiance hoisted in its 
stead. How long will the Parliament and people of this colony submit to 
the unwarrantable exercise of authority wielded by such men as Mr 
Parris, and sanctioned by such a Governor as Sir George Grey? - 
Wanganui Times, May 10.


Australian and New Zealand Gazette 27 May 1871 p329
The following letter had been sent down to the Provincial Council by 
his Honour the Superintendant, and it was read by the Speaker.

New Plymouth 8 Feb 1871
Sir, Referring to the conversation that the deputation from the Cape 
Emont and Opunake Flax Companies had with you yesterday relative to 
the location in immigrants at Opunake, we have now the honour to state 
in writing the views of the directors of the companies on the subject. 
About 60 men and boys are at the present time employed by the two 
companies at their flax works, and an extension of the works at both 
mills will take place if the supply of labour can be more depended on 
than is at present the case. Natives have been and are employed in 
some of the mill operations, but every day's experience confirms the 
impression that European labour must mainly be employed to render the 
enterprise successful, as no dependence can be placed upon the 
natives; for a feast, a tangi or any other trifling cause they will 
leave their work without any notice, and thus suspend the entire 
operations at the mills. Under the present circumstances the supply of 
European labour is very precarious and unsatisfactory, as there is no 
settled population in the neighbourhood, owing in a great measure to 
the fact that all the land, with the exception of that occupied by the 
two companies, belongs to the Government and, therefore, families 
cannot be located there. Hearing that emigrants have arrived at 
Wellington under the auspices of the General Government, the flax 
companies believe that some of the them might be advantageously 
located at Opunake, and as there is some suburban land around the 
township, they would suggest for the consideration of the Government 
the advisability of the locating - say 20 families - then granting 
them five acres of land each, under certain conditions as to 
occupation. The two companies would gladly avail themselves of their 
services and would remark that in the operations at the mills 
employment would be found for families if they were inclined to accept 
it. The wages at present paid by the companies vary from 3s to 5s per 
diem - according to the occupation - and this amount is often 
increased by overtime work. The cost of provisions is very little 
above the price paid at New Plymouth - a store being kept by one of 
the companies with the object of keeping prices at a reasonable rate. 
It is scarcely necessary for us to point out to your Honour the great 
benefit that will be derived by the province and the natives if the 
flax mills at Opunake are successful in their operations, and upon 
their success or failure depends in a great measure whether this 
industry will be fully developed or whether it will be a failure.

The present companies have laid out upwards of 8,000 pounds upon their 
works, and although, owing to the many adverse circumstances attending 
the starting of a new industry away from a settled population and in a 
native district, the enterprise has not hitherto been successful, yet 
looking to the improved state of the flax trade, the companies see a 
prospect of succeeding if the difficulties of the supply of labour can 
be overcome and some assistance is rendered in the way of facilitating 
the shipment of flax. If successful, the present companies will only 
be pioneers in establishing a large manufacture, as there is no doubt 
that the great flax district extending from Oeo to Stoney River would 
be taken up as the natives saw the benefit arising from it, and would 
employ a great number of mills. Knowing that your Honour is favourably 
disposed to the introduction of immigrants as proposed, we have only 
to request that you will bring the subject under the immediate notice 
of the General Government and will use your influence in support of 
it, &c.,

W. K. HULKE, A. WEYERGANG, Directors Cape Egmont
Flax Dressing Company (Limited)

T. KING, W. HUMPHRIES, Directors Opunake Flax
Dressing Company (Limited)

Archives New Zealand: MA-MT 2/1 Maori Affairs Department
Maori Trust Office Inwards Correspondence Register

1882 May 25 A. H. Moore: Re Reserve at Rahotu: Natives wish to have
a Saw Mill erected where they may sell their timber. Have they the 
right to sell timber apart from land & how would leasing interfere 
with timber right.

1882 Jun 13 M. F. Coffey: Ihaia applies to lease piece of land on South 
Side of Waiana River

1882 Jul 10 A. H. Moore: Re Reserve at Rahotu: Natives prefer to sell
timber without leasing land. Suggests legislation to enable them to do so.


Hawera and Normanby Star Friday 7 Dec 1883
Our Correspondent

It seems that there will be no sports held in Opunake on the
coming New Year's Day, as has been the case for several
consecutive years past. A meeting was called for the purpose
of forming a committee, but it fell through, only three or
four persons putting in an appearance.

The Constabulary guard at the Waiau bridge were on the alert
at the beginning of the week, as it was reported that several
native drays (loaded with food) were on the road for Parihaka,
but it appears the drays did not pass Oeo, having distributed
flour, blankets, &c., at Otakeho, Oeo and one or two other
native settlements, in exchange for a large present of dried
pawa - sent from the above settlements to the natives of Patea.

Mr NOLAN (of the firm of Nolan, Tonks and Co.) offered the
Telegraph Hotel by auction today. There was only one bid of
2000 pounds by Messrs MIDDLETON, who therefore became the
purchasers.

It is reported that the Bank of New Zealand will shortly remove
into more commodious premises. The bank owns one of the best
sites in the town, and it is to be hoped they will shortly
erect suitable business premises of their own.

The clerk of the weather has come in for a good deal of abuse
lately, and no wonder. Christmas is close at hand, and the
weather is quite winterly. The season is backward enough
already having curtailed the summer very much.
December 6th.


Hawera and Normanby Star Friday 14 Dec 1883
Our Correspondent

The monthly meeting of the Town Board was held on Thursday
evening last, all the members being present. Rates to the
amount of 35 pounds had come in since last meeting, and there
was considerable discussion as to the disposal of balance in
hand, it being eventually resolved that a committee be
appointed to view Napier and Layard streets to ascertain which
road will require the least expenditure to open; the road to
the town boundary to connect with the road through BREACH's
farm, and thence to connect with the Ihaia road.

Several of the sections on the Ihaia road have been taken up,
and, now that we have a few settlers in the immediate
neighborhood, it is only right that the public bodies interested
should do all in their power to assist them to settle the
country successfully, and it is to be hoped that the Parihaka
Road Board will take action to open up that portion between
the town boundary and the bush, as without that being done the
Town Board's will be for the present almost useless. It was
also resolved that a committee be appointed to inspect the road
to the brewery, and report at next meeting of the board.

Communications with the bush, via Eltham Road, will be cut off
during next winter, if the County Council do not take this road
in hand. Sections recently leased are being fenced, which
encloses the old tracks to the bush, compelling carters and
others to use the partially formed road, which even at this
season of the year is impassable - or nearly so. There seems
a general feeling that the best efforts of the community should
be put forward to urge the Council to undertake this 
indispensable work.

The timber for the Mangahume bridge arrived at last from
Wanganui (per s.s. Hauraki last Saturday). I hear the bridge is
now passable, and the repairs will be completed by the end of
the week.

A meeting will be held this evening re holding New Year's Day
sports.
December 13.


Hawera and Normanby Star Friday 21 Dec 1883
Our Correspondent

Mr MACKAY, Reserves Trustee, and Captain WILSON visited the
township last Saturday, returning on Monday. The sale of
leases is now to take place in March, and will include the
whole of the Stony river and Opunake blocks not already leased.
The total area to be leased will probably be no less than
12,000 to 15,000 acres. It is earnestly to be hoped the sale
will not be delayed beyond the time above stated, as even then
it will be none too early for burning flax, &c. It is reported
that the roads in the blocks mentioned are to be opened up, the
sum of 2000 pounds to be expended on the work.

The potatoes planted by the natives of Matakaha, and other
settlements, appear to be a failure this year, scarcely looking
so well even as last year's crop. The potatoes have come up so
badly that the natives appear to have neglected, in some places,
to weed them. The late crops of all sorts in this district
appear to be doing by far the best on account of the unusually
stormy weather at the beginning of spring, and even at this
time we only enjoy a day now and then of summer.

Mr READ, sen., who has recently removed with his family from
Patea, to Punehu, met with an accident yesterday afternoon
which might have been attended with more serious consequences.
Mr READ was proceeding up the Eltham road in a dray (driven by
his son), and reached the edge of the bush in safety. Here the
mare seems to have become fidgety, and the foal managed to knock
the blinkers off the mare's head - there being no chin-strap.
This caused the mare to bolt, and after running a few chains the
dray overturned, and on falling out Mr READ's head came in
contact with a stump, which stunned him for some time. He
received a cut behind the ear, as well as a nasty knock just
below the nape of the neck. It is to be hoped that nothing more
serious will follow, and that he will soon recover from the
mishap as he is progressing favorably.

The Hinemoa is expected on Saturday, to convey to Kawhia the
wives of the married men who are quartered there.

December 20th.


Hawera and Normanby Star Thursday 27 Dec 1883
Opunake

A meeting of persons interested in promoting the cultivation
and manufacture of the best varieties of New Zealand flax was
held on Friday evening last, at Middleton's Hotel. There was a
very fair attendance.

Mr BURNETT stated that, although he had signed the notices
convening the meeting, the idea originated with Mr BREACH, and,
as Mr BREACH would wish to express his views on the matter he
(Mr BURNETT) proposed that Mr PETTIGREW take the chair.

Mr BREACH stated that, on account of the bleakness of this
coast, it was absolutely necessary to provide shelter for stock
if it was desired to grow them profitably: what better shelter
could be utilised than that which was indigenous to the soil,
viz., flax. Many farmers were now regretting the destruction of
all the flax upon their farms, finding out, when too late, to
preserve it, that its benefit in winter time for shelter was
incalculable. It was his intention to plough up an acre and sow,
broadcast, seeds of the best varieties of New Zealand flax. The
fibre of the common flax was comparatively of little value, but
if farmers would plant belts or strips of the best varieties,
not only would shelter be provided, but a very handsome profit
would be derived by cutting and selling the leaf at a time
when shelter was not required. He thought, to test the market,
that two tons of the best varieties should be dressed, and one
ton be sent to Auckland and the other to London.

Mr WAGSTAFF, in answer to questions, stated that four tons of
raw material of best varieties would turn out as much as seven
tons of raw material of the common variety, and there was no
comparison between the fibres. He could afford to give at the
mill almost double the price per ton for the better kinds than
what he was at present giving for the inferior. He would be
willing to prepare two tons of the best varieties if the
material could be procured.

After considerable discussion, in which Messrs PETTIGREW,
BREACH, WAGSTAFF, and others joined, it was resolved "That
notices be posted in the town, inviting natives and others to
bring in 9 tons raw material of good flax, that one ton 
(dressed) be sent to Auckland, and one to London; that Mr
PETTIGREW and Mr BREACH be appointed a sub-committee to receive
the flax and to attend to the dressing; and that a subscription
list be opened to defray cost.

Nine pounds were promised in the room; expenses to amount to
about 35 pounds.

It was pointed out that the subscription was simply an advance
to pay expenses. The undertaking could scarcely fail, and
would most likely yield a dividend to subscribers.

I have pleasure in forwarding a small sample of flax exhibited
to the meeting, the fibre being very strong, which may be seen
by all interested in your locality. The sample is hand-dressed,
and, to show its superiority, requires to be compared with the
common variety.

December 22.


Archives New Zealand: MA-MT 2/1 Maori Affairs Department
Maori Trust Office Inwards Correspondence Register

1884 Aug 25 Whatarau: Wants his share of rents forwarded in
one sum to him at Opunake [1884/99]

1884 Aug 25 Whatarau & 14 others: Wants their share of rent
equally divided, forwarded to c/o Whatarau at Opunake, for
distribution to them. [1884/100]


Hawera and Normanby Star Monday 8 Sep 1884
Opunake Lighter Company

The annual meeting of shareholders of the Opunake Lighter
Company was called for Monday evening last, but owing to the
very bad weather the meeting fell through. The following
report by the directors was to have come up for discussion:-

Report

In presenting the third balance-sheet to shareholders, your
directors think it desirable to make a few remarks concerning
the position of the company. In order to do this more 
efficiently it will be necessary to compare the balance-sheet
in the hands of shareholders with that issued last year. Before
doing so it will be necessary to preface that the company have
felt the general depression, as the following summary of goods
landed by the company will show:-

			1882-83		1883-4
General cargo -tons	1023		754
Timber - feet		128,568		21,789
Flax and Tow - bales	512		414
Wool - bales		48		133
Wool - sacks		8		2
Fungus - bales		34		24
Fungus - sacks		45		0

(The above does not include a number of other small return.)

It will be seen that there is a considerable reduction in the
amount of general cargo landed. This can partly be accounted
for by the district having raised sufficient oats and potatoes
for its own wants, which was not the case last year; and
although the district is the gainer, the company is necessarily
a loser. A loss has occurred by the reductions of the A. C.
Force. The next largest decrease has been in timber, accounted
for by the depression and a good deal of the supply being
obtained locally, the roads being in good order. The only item
which shows an increase is wool, which is most marked and
cannot but be gratifying to shareholders, this being an
important and valuable export. Returning to the balance-sheet,
it will be seen that the general receipts this year have been
501 pounds 15s 8d, as compared with 692 pounds 7s 6d for the
year 1882-83. For the same period, 154 pounds 3s 8d was received
from shareholders, as against 9 pounds 16s 4d for 1883-84.
The shareholders will therefore see that the company have
passed through the year with scarcely any aid from shareholders,
as in former years. The overdraft stands somewhat higher than
at the same period last year, but your directors have taken
steps to reduce this, which will be explained shortly. On the
expenditure side the most noticeable reductions are - Claims
for damaged goods, 59 pounds 5s 1d in 1882-83, 3 pounds 17s 6d
in 1883-84; law expenses 23 pounds 15s 2d in 1882-83, 14 pounds
6s 1d in 1883-84; plant and repairs, 78 pounds 19s 4d in 
1882-83, 46 pounds 15s 11d in 1883-84; interest on overdraft
9 pounds 1s 9d in 1882-83, 5 pounds 18s 10d in 1883-84. It
must be borne in mind, also, that liabilities incurred before
the year 1883-84 just closed, amounting to 21 pounds 18s 1d,
have been paid during the year, which would have reduced the
overdraft to 63 pounds 10s. It will be noticed that the only
liabilities besides those to shareholders and the bank are for
current expenditure, as wages and salaries. As regards the loss,
this can be accounted for in cost of incorporation of company,
law expenses (Nichol v. Co.), and the large deterioration of
plant, principally in surf-lines. As regards the plant, at the
present our directors can confidently say that it is now in
better working order than at the same period last year, and is
in good condition to carry on the work. Two important changes
have taken place during the year. On account of the depression,
it became evident to your directors that the staff would have
to be reduced. The crew were accordingly dismissed, and tenders
were invited for landing the cargo to and from the company's
shed, with the use of the company's plant. A tender was 
accepted, the contract commencing on the 1st February, so that
the system has had six months' trial; and your directors have
reason to be satisfied with it. The percentage of earnings for
working expenses, not including repairs, under the old system,
amounted to 93 per cent. for the first six months of the year,
and to 90 per cent. for the second period, which shows slightly
in favour of the system by contract. the contractors also
being responsible for any loss sustained. The other important
changes came in force on the 1st August, to the effect that the
lighterage charges be raised to 12s 6d per ton, to residents
of the town district only, what shareholders in the district be
allowed a rebate of 3d per share per ton up to 10 shares. Your
directors, by this change, hope to meet the expenses of keeping
plant in order, until such time as increased trade warrant a
reduction. Another charge has been effected during the year just
past, which will tell considerably in the future, in the
agreement between the Government and the company to land cargo
at 6s per ton, and other articles at reduced rates, the 
directors having succeeded in obtaining the sanction of the
Government for its termination, which will be on 30th September,
1884. The question of storage is forced upon the attention of
directors, and when the exigency arises, your directors think
that the company has passed through the crisis in a measure
successfully, and future balance-sheets may be looked forward
to with great pleasure.

===============================================================
From a Correspondent

Like most other towns, Opunake is now slightly feeling the
depression which at present exists throughout the colony, but
with the immense extent of country around it, the depression
ought soon to wear off, and the place begin to forge ahead
again. The natural advantages of Opunake cannot be disputed. It
is situated on one of the prettiest bays on the coast, with
nearly every facility for making a really good and safe harbor;
while the land around is of excellent quality.

An now I come to a very just cause of complaint on the part of
many of the new settlers - viz., that they have purchased land
and are compelled to improve it, by building, fencing, etc.;
but in the absence of roads, or even in many instances tracks,
it is utterly impossible for them to get on to their lands with
the necessary material for making such improvements. It
certainly appears that the purchasers of sections have been
treated in anything but a fair manner, and it is hoped that the
Government will see its way clear to assist them out of their
difficulty as soon as possible.

Opunake is still the headquarters of the A. C. force, though
the number of men stationed there has been somewhat reduced.
While writing about the force, I may mention that there are
some rather ugly rumours going the rounds re the
canteen accounts, and if half of what is stated be true, a very
strict enquiry ought to be made into the matter, and it behoves
the officers to see the accounts squared up, and a proper
statement of receipts and expenditure made out.

The town board appear to take it easy, whether it is for want
of funds or not I cannot say, but there are many little
improvements required, such as kerbing, drainage, &c. There is
nothing like making a town attractive to outsiders; and a
visitor to Opunake on a wet day would not be inclined to form a
good opinion of the town, upon seeing the miniature lakes
outside the business houses after a smart shower. The board
would do well in the interests of the town by expending a few
pounds upon surface drainage.

The Lighter Company, after struggling against many difficulties
since its formation, appears now to have a brighter prospect
before it. I believe there was to have been a meeting of
directors and shareholders on Monday night, but the meeting
lapsed for want of a quorum. It is to be regretted that some of
the Opunake business people do not take more interest in the
concern, for, with a good landing service now, they will be able
to make Opunake a place of call for vessels of various
descriptions, and in the end it would greatly assist them in
getting the money they require to make their harbour, as well as
giving outsiders greater confidence in regard to the prosperity
of the place.

The school committee, like those of other small towns, has its
grievances. The Opunake committee is under the New Plymouth
board, and complains greatly of the treatment it receives from
the latter body. It does not seem to matter what trifling thing
requires to be done - the committee is quietly told that there
is no money, and it must get along the best way it can. How
about the enormous sums spent upon fine buildings at New
Plymouth? Would not some of that money have been better expended
in making some of the country school houses more comfortable?

I notice there is a wonderful improvement in the main road
between Manaia and Opunake. Travellers need not be afraid of the
journey now the road is in good order; as the line of coaches
appear to be well arranged, and run not only very regularly,
but do the journey in excellent time, thus making the trip much
more pleasant than formerly.

The accomodation afforded to those visiting Opunake is of the
highest order. There are two hotels - Messrs MIDDLETON's and
S. PROSSER's - and the houses are large and well furnished. They
are fitted with bath-rooms, billiard-rooms, and every other
convenience that can be desired; while the comfort of the guests
appears to be studied in every respect.

Sports of every kind are freely indulged in, there being la
crosse, tennis, cricket, and football clubs, while athletic
sports are now held regularly once or twice a year.

I am sorry that I cannot speak as well of the bridges between
Hawera and Opunake, and of the road. Many of the bridges along
the line appear to be in anything but good order, while some of
the approaches at the Opunake end are in an abominable state. I
am informed that the Taranaki County Council is responsible for
this. If so, the sooner that body has the necessary work done
the better, otherwise they may let it go too long, and in the
end find themselves called upon to defend an action for damages.


Hawera and Normanby Star Tuesday 09 Sep 1884
Opunake Our Correspondent

The third annual general meeting of the Opunake Lighter
Company was called for Monday last, the 1st inst, but was
adjourned until the following day, a quorum not being present.
On Tuesday a quorum was again not forthcoming. The object of
the meeting being the election of two directors and an auditor,
and as there was no general meeting, the directors and auditor
or last year will continue in office for another year.

The settlers on the Eltham road and other roads leading from
the Eltham road, are somewhat dissatisfied with the state of
the former road from various causes, one of the principle being
the impossibility of their children attending the school on
account of the state of the road. It appears that there are at
least 30 children of the school age whose parents reside in the
locality indicated, and they consider it an injustice that their
children should not have the advantages of others, if the road
was in fair order the children could attend the Opunake school.
The Eltham road being a main road, consequently a county road,
it would be best for the settlers to bring the matter repeatedly
before the county, until such times as any reasonable demands
are satisfied. The desired half may be obtained through the
Roads and Bridges Construction Act, and the matter should be
taken up energetically shortly.

The natives here commenced preparing for cropping a week or two
ago, although not on a very extensive scale. The crops consist
principally of potatoes and a few acres of oats.

The concert which was to have taken place on Thursday last was
postponed on account of the indisposition of some of those who
were to assist. The concert will be given on Thursday next, when
is hoped, through the longer publicity, a better house will be
the result.

The Taranaki County Council, at its last meeting, resolved to
increase the representation of the Omata riding in the council
by one member. Some two years ago this matter caused 
considerable agitation, as the large district from Stony River
south was, and has been, practically unrepresented at the
council. It would be well if the ratepayers were to have a
candidate ready to contest the next election.

A few of the lessees of open land to the north of Opunake have
to contend with a good deal of hardships in being unable to get
upon their holdings by the surveyed roads. There are one or
two instances of special hardship; one, notably, the case of a
settler, who has built upon and is residing upon his holding,
being unable to reach his land without the favor of his
neighbours. Hitherto the lessees have been applying to the
Government to make the roads, with no immediate success. Rates
for two years have been paid, or should have been paid, by the
Government upon this very land to the Parihaka Road Board. Would
it not be as well for the settlers to apply to the road board
for assistance? In the case mentioned the outlay of making the
road passable would not be very great, the principle obstacles
being two small swampy creeks.

In accordance with a resolution of the House, the first copy of
Hansard was received by the Town Board a day or two since. In
cases of debates on any subject of special loan interest, it
will be convenient to have the speeches at hand. September 6.


Hawera and Normanby Star Friday 12 Sep 1884
Opunake Town Board Meeting

The ordinary monthly meeting of the Town Board was held on
Monday evening last, the 8th inst. Messrs BURNETT (in the chair)
MIDDLETON and NEWMAN were present.

A deputation, consisting of Messrs BREACH and CROWTHER waited
on the board with reference to lining the hall.

The minutes of last meeting as amended being confirmed, the
chairman called for an expression of views from the deputation.

Mr BREACH stated that the school room was very inconvenient for
the holding of church services, especially as regards the
sitting accomodation, and the Wesleyans would like to have a
more suitable building. It was at first thought the church might
be induced to lay out money in part payment of lining the Hall,
but it was subsequently found it could not be done. However,
the Wesleyans would be prepared to buy 20 seats to be their own
property, and in addition, Mr CROWTHER and himself would
guarantee one-eighth of the cost of lining the hall; the seats
provided would not be removed while the Wesleyans used the hall
for public worships.

In reply to a member,
Mr CROWTHER stated the Wesleyans did not require any pre-emptive
right to the hall, and would readily give way to any 
denomination when they (the Wesleyans) did not require it.

It was resolved, That providing the cost of lining the hall does
not exceed 90 pounds, and that the Department of Justice pay
half the cost, and that the deputation will guarantee one-eighth
of the cost, the board call tenders for the same.

Correspondence was read from Major ATKINSON and Captain WRAY re
setting apart one acre of suburbab section 8 for a public pound.
- From C. E. RAWSON R. M., re lining hall
- Fom secretary Taranaki County Council, forwarding petitions
re Stratford route for the main trunk line, for the chairman's
signature.
- From the Commissioner Property Tax Department, for return of
the real property of the board; also, re rates on native lands.

Resolved, That Capt. WRAY be written to pointing out that one
acre would be suitable for a pound, but the board thinks it
would be better if a larger area be reserved - say, five acres.

Resolved, That tenders be called for fencing across Wilson road,
for removing boulders, and for planting 250 ngaio trees along
that road.

Resolved, That the Chairman instruct the returning officer to
hold an extraordinary election for two commissioners in the
place of Messrs McLEOD and FORBES, who have ceased to be member
through non-attendance.

Accounts to the amount of 5 pounds were passed for payment.

The treasurer laid a statement before the board showing the bank
balance at 48 pounds 10s 8d, also 50 pounds at fixed deposit at
the Bank of New Zealand.

The meeting then adjourned. September 10.


Hawera and Normanby Star Tuesday 23 Sep 1884
Our Correspondent

It has been suggested by several settlers that it would be
advantageous to resuscitate the Town and District Committee,
that matters of local interest may be kept in view the better.
The cause of the non-election of a new committee recently
seems to have been on account of the non-attendance of the
country members. Settlers should not forget the fact that
without the cooperation of town and country, very little local
improvements will be effected. There is no doubt, if the farmers
desired to form a committee to look after local matters, they
would have the support and sympathy of the townspeople. The
matter of first importance to all alike is to obtain
improvements to tbe bay. At the time of the general election
this matter obtained considerable prominence, and a public
meeting was called to discuss the subject. One resolution
carried at that meeting was somewhat as follows: "That the
Minister of Marine be written to requesting him to allow the
Government Marine Engineer to furnish an estimate of the
probable cost of the most suitable works for improving the bay."
That such a resolution was carried two months ago with no
apparent result seems to have escaped the memory of a great many
in the district. It being a subject the district cannot allow
to be forgotten, would it not be as well for settlers to renew
the agitation through the services of a committee, and avail
themselves of the opportunity of endeavouring to secure the aid
of the present Minister of Marine in conjunction with that of
our member?

For some time past townspeople have been expecting to hear the
result of the application made by the Taranaki County Council
for a loan of 1,000 pounds for the main road through the town
out of the Roads and Bridges Construction Fund. There seems
some doubt whether the Act will remain in force, and as the
Public Works Statement will be made shortly, the doubts of
ratepayers will no doubt soon be at an end. In the event of the
application not receiving the sanction of the Minister for
Public Works, it will be time the attention of the County
Council was directed to necessary repairs required upon the
main road. Two years' rates have been paid, and a third payment
will shortly be demanded; and yet we have not even had the
surfaceman here for about eighteen months! The southern end of
the county must not fail to take advantage of the coming 
election, and to remember the example set by the councillors
from the northern end, who evidently believe in the adage "Serve
thyself if thou would be well served."

Last week Mr T. MACKAY, Reserves Trustee, was here for the
purpose of paying over to the natives the rents accruing from
leases. The natives were rather disappointed with the amount
tendered, which did not come up to their expectations. The
payments were in respect of lands mostly covered with bush,
leased about a year ago, through which roads have been felled
and cleared. No payment has yet been made to natives in the
Opunake North blocks. In spite of the small amount of the
payments, it is stated that some natives who before refused
to accept any money have declared their willingness to take the
amount offered.

Those who had been looking forward to the long talked of 
football match between Parihaka and Hawera teams, which was
arranged to be held this afternoon at Oeo, were after all
doomed to be disappointed. The Parihaka team fulfilled their
part of the engagement, but their opponents failed to put in an
appearance. The error seems to have occurred through want of
thought on the part of the secretary of the Hawera team, for
up to nine o'clock on Saturday no notification of the post-
ponement of the match had been received at Parihaka. The
general inference over the postponement of the match is that
the Hawera team were not desirous of incurring the risk of
losing the laurels won during the season. A club which object
to play off their own ground, shows very little courtesy to
opposing teams, and that they have not the same confidence
in themselves away from home. September 20th.


Hawera and Normanby Star Thursday 30 Jan 1894
Opunake:Fatal Accident at Opunake Jetty

An inquest was held on Friday before Major TUKE, Coroner, and
a jury of six of whom Mr CROSS was foreman, to enquire into the
cause of death of Owen McKENNA, who died the previous day, as it
was thought from injuries received on Sunday while discharging
a steamer at the jetty.

Dr PAIRMAN and other witnesses gave evidence.

It appears that the "Kanieri" was lying alongside the wharf at
low water. The deceased was at the whinch on the jetty lowering
flax to the boat. While in the slings the steamer gave a lurch,
and the sudden jerk took the which handle from the man's hands,
and flying back struck him on the right temple and chest,
throwing him backward on to the deck, and bruising the back of
his head. He did not become unconscious, and did not complain
of any other injury but the cut on his forehead. This was
dressed for him, and he went home. The doctor was sent for on
Thursday, but the poor fellow died next day.

The jury returned a verdict that deceased died of accident; with
a rider to the effect that two men should be on the whinch.

The funeral took place at 2 o'clock on Saturday.

There was a good deal of comment at there not being a Catholic
priest available to perform the funeral rites, they being all
absent from Hawera and New Plymouth in Wellington. It seems
hard that one should not be left to work both parishes in cases
of necessity - January 20.


Hawera and Normanby Star Wednesday 28 Feb 1894
Opunake Jetty

As will be seen by reference to our advertising columns meetings
are to be held in Waimate to consider the advisableness of
providing accommodation for the shipment of stock from Opunake.
The jetty has now proved itself a commercial success, but so
far it is only of direct benefit to storekeepers and others who
have dead freight passing inwards or outwards. To enable the
settlers to reap the full benefit it is necessary that provision
should be made enabling them to ship everything which they can
produce, including live stocks from the port. The present
jetty was only looked on as an experiment, as the majority of
the settlers, even those who subscribed the capital, had grave
doubts as to whether it would stand the sea or not. That stage,
however has now passed, it having proved itself seaworthy to
the fullest extent during the two it has been erected. Settlers
may now, therefore, proceed with any further improvements or
extension with every confidence in such works being permanent.
Until July last year the steamers trading to the port would not
come alongside the jetty, necessitating the continued use of
surf boats to lighter them, and this absorbed nearly the whole
of the wharfage dues accruing to the Company. Captain GIBBONS
then brought the "Waverley" alongside and in the course of a
few hours had discharged and loaded eighty odd tons of inward
and outward cargo. The directors then decided to abandon the
lighter boats, and the Northern Company, finding they must send
the steamers alongside or forego the trade of the port, brought
the ss "Kanieri", which now calls regularly. The following
figures will show how the trade has progressed since -

On July 29, 1893, the "Waverley" came alongside; in August,
four steamers called; September, three; October, six; November,
six; December, seven; January, five.

The amount of wharfage earned during this period was 193 pounds,
and the labour of handling cargo cost the Wharf Company 165
pounds, leaving a balance of 128 pounds to credit of the 
Company. The amount of shareholder's capital invested in the
present works being about 1,300 pounds, it will thus be seen
that the balance of wharfage for seven months, afted deducting
expenses, equals nearly 10 percent per annum on the present
capital invested. The directors propose to add another span of
30ft., and then put on a tee 40 feet by 20 feet, and to erect
yards, and a cattle-race for shipment of stock. At present
there is a depth of 12ft 6in at high water. If the 50ft were
added it would take it into a depth of 15ft at low water and
25ft at high water, besides giving more sea-room, so that any
boat at present trading on the Coast could be accomodated there.
This increased accomodation would mean increased competition,
and competition as everyone knows, means cheap freight. No doubt
the settlers will see, after going fully into the matter, that 
it will be to their interests to push the work ahead, and the
necessary capital should be forthcoming to enable the works to
be proceeded with at once. Meetings at other centres will be
held, of which due notice will be given.


Hawera and Normanby Star Friday 02 Mar 1894
Our Correspondent

News has been very scarce of late; perhaps the bush fires have
interested the people most for the last week. Along the Eltham
road in places the fire raged very fierce at times. The high
wind which was blowing on Friday and Saturday drove the fire
and smoke for long distances. Fences were burned down in a
number of instances, and grass scorched, but I have not heard
of any building having been destroyed, though some had narrow
escapes. Up the Ihaia road also the settlers had hard work to
save their houses. Heavy rain came on Saturday night, which
quickly made everything safe again. A lot of bush and timber
has been cleared, but then a lot of grass has been burned.

The return ball to Mrs MIDDLETON is to come off on Friday night.
Should the weather be fair it will be a big thing. Very complete
preparations are being made by the management.

The Opunake school picnic and sports were held today in Mr
AITKEN's paddock on the Eltham road. There was a good muster
of children and friends. Games and racing, etc., were got up,
and all enjoyed themselves thoroughly.

Mr DUTHIE, MHR for Wellington City, paid us a hurried visit
yesterday. It is reassuring to see that our little seaport
town is attracting the attention of such men - February 28


Hawera and Normanby Star Thursday 08 Mar 1894
Our Correspondent

The complimentary ball tendered to Mrs MIDDLETON last Friday
night was a very great success. A fine cool night and an almost
perfect dancing floor, together with good music, were nearly
all that could be desired. There were about 60 couples present.
The hall was nicely decorated. The stage was arranged as a
drawing room, and was much appreciated by on-lookers. A
temporary supper room was erected outside. Mr KAPPELY had charge
of this department, and he must be congratulated on the way he
carried out his part. The committee were Messrs SCOTT, BAIKES,
and EASON, and Miss TAIT and Mrs O'BRIEN. They must feel very
pleased with the result of the ball, which is said to have been
one of the nicest yet held here. Mrs MIDDLETON also must be
agreeably pleased at this token of esteem in which she is held,
and recognition of her very many kindnesses and good works in
Opunake - March 6