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Globe, Volume XX, Issue 1560, 18 February 1879, Page 2

Wreck of the Taupo.— It will be seen by the telegraphic column that the s.a. Taupo has gone ashore on Beacon Point, Tauranga. Further telegrams inform us that the accident happened at 5.40 this morning. A large hole was knocked in the bottom and the fires were put out. The rock is the same on which the Hawea bumped some time ago. A passenger per the Taupo states that he was standing on the forecastle, and noticed that, as they entered the Heads, they seemed to be going rather near the land, also that the tide rip appeared very strong. Suddenly the steamer struck a sunken rock and appeared to lift under his feef. There was then a gener. 1 lurch, and as he looked towards the helm, which was forward, he saw that the helmsman had let go the wheel. Both captain and helmsman were on the dock at the time. The engine-room now began to fill with water. All hands were ordered on deck, and the order was instantly obeyed. The boats were rapidly lowered, and, save for a little excitement amongst the women, the greatest selfcontrol was exhibited by all who were on deck. Those who were summoned from out of their cabins seemed rather alarmed. The ladies had hardly time to dress, being compelled to go ashore at once. After the women had been carefully landed, the men, some with luggage, some without, followed. The principal danger at this time was that, owing to the falling tide, the ship might cant over. The Taupo is about a stone’s throw from the beach at Mount Mongonui, Her cargo will be all landed there to-day-The s.B. Kati-kati has gone from Tauranga to the wreck with the agent and reporters. Ho excuse can be made for the accident, as men-of-war and ships of the largest tonnage have come the same way. Some of the ladies were in bed at the time of the accident. It is not yet known what arrangement the Union Company will make.