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Hokitika Guardian, 17 January 1929, Page 4

The double stranding at the harbour mouth yesterday is an event very much

to be deplored, particularly because of tin; regrettable circumstances which was the initial cause of tin* trouble. Ibe Xingara previously- had worked the port under conditions far from as favourable as yesterday, when there was a good channel and plenty ol water. It was unfortunate when success was assured in that respect, that a mechanical delect in the steering gear should lead to control being lost of the ship, which became a toy to the breakers, and the vessel was soon beached. In the case of the tug, tinvessel made the entrance '.if the river in-safety, but grounded on a sand bar in the net of turning seaward again and losing way became a prey to the range from the ocean which appeared to be considerable at the harbour month, and the boat was soon piled up in juxtaposition to the Xingara, tho training wall on the south side sop.uating till* two boats. It was further unfortunate that the efforts to refloat (Ik* tug were not successful mi ibis: early morning’s tide. r l he gear tailed to hold, but it was under a severe test as the rise of the tides just now is poor comparatively, and the tug is of considerable draught. The circumstances are therefore very untoward, and it is all very unfortunate lor tin* port. Hitherto the Zmgara had worked Hokitika bar in go"d style, and a good trade was being established with the North Island, this after a lapse <nl years through the- port being ignored bv loss enterprising (inns. '1 he /ingaia in ordinary circumstances had proved a fi, lo type of boat for the port and the ready manner in which the bar had been negotiated under all conditions, gave promise of a- very success!ul run. Yet a simple mechanical accident, the breaking of the steering gear when on the bar and before reaching sea room has caused tho collapse of many bright hopes in connection with the future of the shipping trade. It is to he hoped that the outlook will he more promising this afternoon, and without loss of time or serious damage both ships will be returned to their native element.