THERMAL DANGERS

Hokitika Guardian, 27 January 1932, Page 3

THERMAL DANGERS

WATER DIVINER’S ADVICE

PRECAUTIONS AT ROTORUA.

ROTORUA, January 22,

Some interesting information regarding the recent thermal outburst on the shores of Lake Rotorua was given to a “Star” representative to-day by Mr A. G. Tliompson, the well-known water diviner. He said that about four years ago he traced a big “fault,” or fracture from Whakarewarewa across Cemetery Read out into the lake. At the spot in the lake where the “fault” ended the blowout bad apparently occurred. When the blowout at Ngapuna occurred some time back Mr Thompson visited the locality and found that two fractures were running from this big “fault” right over to Ngapuna, which actually 'constitutes the junction of the two fractures. At that time Ngapuna geyser was in a swamp a short distance from the junction of the fractures. When he went over tiie ground it appeared quite safe and lie saw a horse and visitors cross over the junction. But as a result of his investigations lie warned the Maoris of the pa that the place was very dangerous. The streams beneath the surface were working very violently at the junction and he expressed the opinion that everyone should keep away from the spot, and to ensure more safety advised the erection of a fence around the area. Two whares were erected upon land lying between the two streams and he strongTv advised their abandonment. His warning with regard to the fence, Mr Thompson said, was disregarded, hut fortunately the blowout which occurred a day or two later on the junction of the fractures took place in the early morning when no one "'as about. He was not a Lit surprised at what happened, as the two streams were always working violently underneath and constituted a constant danger.

Mr Thompson said lie understood that natives still occupied one of tile whares mentioned, its situation being a little further back from the junction than its neighbour. The Maoris, petrhaps, thought that they were perfectly safe, as the junction was some little distance from where the blowout occurred. It might be a case of blissful ignorance, but if they realised the danger they were in they would not be able to get away from the whares quick enough as a blowout might occur at any time. No doubt was expressed bv Mr Thompson regarding the blowout which occurred this week. It. was, apparently, right on the line of the big fracture which ran into the lake. The earth crust and floor of the lake was, evidently, weak in that vicinity and any alteration in pressure owing to the falling or rising of the water level of the lake, might cause a blowout at any time. While there was no cause for apprehension of anything serious, he was definitely of opinion that visitors should approach the locality with caution. Signs should be erected giving warning of possible danger, and if this work were undertaken lie would he quite willing to to assist the authorities in locating unsafe areas.