S.S. AWARUA.

Hokitika Guardian, 17 September 1926, Page 4

S.S. AWARUA.

NO SIGN VET

UV TELEGRAPH—PRESS ASSN., COPYRIGHT.

WELLINGTON, September 16

The non-arrival of the trawler Awarua at Wellington from Chatham Islands has strengthened the belief that she was the vessel which advised tiie R.M.S. M'ukura on Tuesday night that her coal supplies were short. The Awarua is on foreign articles, and under the regulations, she is not required to be fitted with wireless.

The Government wireless regulations apply to every ship registered in Nev. Zealand, and to all Home trade ships not so registered, which, are of 1.600 tons gross registered tonnage or upwards, or which carry more than 12 passengers, or carry more than 25 persons. Those regulations do not apply to ships being towed, or to ships plying solely on lakes, rivers and harbours, or within river or extended river limits.

Last evening the Marine Department sent out a wireless message advising ships, of the position and course of the Awarua.

The Federal Company’s liner Cumberland. which was on her way down the coast to Wellington from Auckland, was diverted. The Cumberland arrived in port this morning, when it was learned that a search was made for the missing vessel. A fishing boat was all that was seen by the officers of the liner, but it could not be distinguished as it did not slacken speed. The boat appeared to be in good trim, however, and her lights were correct. Since yesterday afternoon six ships have; arrived at Wellington, but no report .'fas been received of their having sight'd am- shin in difficulties. No further word lias been received

from the Toia, and it was not known wbeth'w she would continue searching to-night. It is understood that arrangements are Vicing made to divert the oil-tanker Tamahn for the purpose of making a search. The Tamahn is about a day’s sail from the New Zealand const, en route with fuel oil front San Luis Obispo (California) to Wellington. Inquiries were made this morning as to whether there was a seaplane which could make a search. None was available. however. FURTHER SEARCH FATES. WELLINGTON. September 15. The tn<r Toin, out all night searching for the Awarua. wirelessed this morning that it was P 0 miles south-east of Ralliscr. but so far has seen no trace. Tt lias been suggested that the Awarua which was doe here on Tuesday may turn no at Nanier.