PORT CHALMERS.

Evening Star, Volume VIII, Issue 2191, 16 May 1870, Page 2

PORT CHALMERS.

Although there are but few ships iu Port Chalmers, there is a good deal of work going on of varied description. The chief point of interest is undoubtedly the graving dock, the construction of which is proceeding rapidly. The huge blocks ot stone, that have been lying so many months dressed, are now being rapidly transferred to their pro-destined places, and the beautiful regularity of each terrace shews the accuracy with which they have been worked. The forethought displayed extended to placing them in positions whence they could be removed to their final beds at the least possible expense of labor, sq that all unnecessary turning over might bo avoided—those stones that are first required having been in front. Amongst those that are behind, because among the last that will he wanted, are some immense blocks, some of them weighing about seven tons. These are the footings for the gates, and are prepared with great care and accuracy. No little art has been displayed in blasting these huge masses, so as to obtain them without a flaw. Iu every part of the works equal contrivance and care are evinced, and, so far as it has progressed, we have not seen better work so rapidly done in any of the Colonies. The harbor steamer Peninsula is undergoing extension, and is now cut, iqto twq flam, for the purpose of adding sqme twenty feet to her length. It is also intended to give her a new and stronger bottom. These improvements will tend much to increase lur usefulness, and in all probability add to her speed, as her engines were quite equal to propelling a heavier vessel than she was. Two vessels of small tonnage, for (he coasting trade, are also on the stocks at different yards, and have reached differei t stages of construction. One is nearly ready for planking, and, if the weather permits working, will be ready for launching in a few

weeks. The Taranaki has been in the floating dock, undergoing a thorough examination, and another vessel is expected to take her place as soop as fier cargo is discharged.