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Hokitika Guardian, 24 June 1927, Page 2

Another important slop with regard to the introduction of hydro-electric [lower lias been completed. The Coini puny to carry out the undertaking is r now registered with a capital of £1(0,- - 000, and it i.s hoped will soon be in - operation. The provision of light and . power for the areas to be served will lx* of great importance and value to the people affected. It will mean that for a relatively small annual payment they will receive exactly what they pay for. The district i.s not to be saddled with r any special rating which would fall , a,ike on the users and llie non-users. 1 I'nder the admirable arrangement made by Lbe Westland Electric Power ; Board there is not- nnv liability on the district served or on its inhabitants. The whole liability present and . prospective falls on the Company which takes all the risks in the way of or- . diuary speculation. Tile Company in return will lie well entitled to any am all profits derived as a reward for the enterprise shown, and it would appear ; the confidence is well justified judging hy the eagerness of the residents to re- ' reive the supply. There i.s much en- : quiry for the electric service so that the Company is starting out with proI niising prospects. Another aspect of i the district outlook i.s the fact that hy reason of the power being available in various out of the way parts, new .industries will he served. In that connection [rower will be usuable for timber-milling and flax dressing, and it is quite oil the cards that with the power to pump water to heights not served hy water races, there will he mi nine developments by the issue of portable milling plants. The prospects offering in this industrial outlook are very promising indeed, and help to make assurance doubly sure as to the ultimate success of the Company. The Westland Power Board appears to have handled the matter in a manner creditable to all concerned. The best price was obtained in reason for the Government race, and the terms with the Company are such that the races are not alienated hut remain the property of the people. There is a long lease with the right of reversion at a stipulated time thus safeguarding public rights and interests. The Board has done well certainly, and deserves thanks for the capable handling of this very large and important matter to the district.