WAIRARAPA PADDOCKS ABLAZE.

Dominion, Volume 4, Issue 974, 15 November 1910, Page 4

WAIRARAPA PADDOCKS ABLAZE.

FENCES AND PLANT SOTPBE.

(By Teleeraph.-Special Correspondent.) Masterton, November 14. Extensive grass fires have been raging in various parts of the Wairarapa during tho last day or two, and have done considerable damage. On Mr. W. N. Hummer's property at Kummerstein a fire broke out yesterday, , and, fanned by a westerly gale; spread with alarming rapidity, licking up the grass and destroying fences. At one time the homestead was in danger, and it was only by supreme efforts that it was saved. ' Fortunately, rnoet of the she«p were mastered for shearing or they would nave suffered considerably. , Messrs. Vennell Bros, at Tβ Wharau were heavy losers, their valuable milling plant being destroyed. The fire also spread to tho properties of Messrs. Richards Bros, and ,E. Barrer, sweeping large areas of country. At Stronvar, largo scrub and grass fires have been raging, and the properties of Mr. Harold Wardell and several Natives have suffered. About 1000 acres of this country has been swept. In the Mount Bruce district, to the east of Masterton, a fire, started in the river bod, nnd spread over a number of properties, placing homesteads in danger. No serious losses are reported from this quarter, however. At the time of telegraphing rain is threatening, and it is consequently hoped that further damage may not be recorded. • ■ "