RUDDER DAMAGED

Hokitika Guardian, 6 February 1929, Page 2

RUDDER DAMAGED

HOLM DALE STRIKES TJ.MARU BREAKWATER. TIM All U, Feb. 4 While manoeuvring in the swinging basin in Tiinaiu Harbour on Friday evening, prior to her departure for Lyttelton, the coastal steamer Holmdalo had her stern damaged through coming into contact with the stone wall which forms the southern side of the inner harbour. The mishap at first was not regarded as likely to have caused any damage, and the vessel put to sea. However, when passing the extremity of the eastern extension it was found that she was not keeping to her course, hut was drifting slightly shorewards towards Dashing Rocks. Tt became evident in the open sea that the vessel was not answering the helm, and it was necessary to return-to port. The vessel was put about after a considerable time, the difficult task of manoeuvring the crippled steamer being accomplished by means of her engines with the assistance of a sail, which was rigged to the foremast. With the sail hoisted the vessel was kept off shore, the captain taking full advantage of a northerly wind which was blowing to counteract the drift of the'ocean current. The vessel drifted broadside on through the harbour entrance, and there were many tense moments as she passed through the narrow opening. The task of berthing the vessel was a difficult one, but here again the northerly wind was of great assistance and she was brought alongside the No. 3 wharf and safely moored.

A diver from Dunedin inspected tb damage to the vessel on Saturday and found that the rudder had been put out of commission. Repair work was at once put into operation, and it is expected that the steamer will be ready to put to sea to-day, when she will resume her trip to Lyttelton.