DISASTROUS FLAX FIRE.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLIII, Issue 2235, 5 February 1921, Page 3

DISASTROUS FLAX FIRE.

DAMAGE TOTALS £IO,OOO

A disastrous fire occurred between Maukoro and Patetonga (Waikato) on Sunday, when 2,000 acres of flax swamp, owned by the Government, and leased to flaxmillers, was totally destroyed. The damage is estimated at £IO,OOO. The area was divided into four blocks, averaging 500 acres each. Tjiree of the blocks were leased last August to Alessrs Dalziel Bros., of Patetonga, and Air E. L. Broad, of Palmerston North. It is believed the ■ outbreak was caused by sparks from a neighbouring farm. Fanned by a stiff southwesterly breeze, the flames spread quickly. The hands from the mills in the vicinity did their utmost, but their efforts were futile, as the fire had too strong a hold. It could not he suppressed until it had burnt itself out of. had gone into worthless rush country to the windward. The Government had valued Messrs Dalziel’,s flax at £2,500, and the value of each of the other blocks would be about the same. Alessrs Dalziel Bros, intended to build a n'ew mill, to be operated by electricity, and to be ready for working next October. Alessrs Hunter Bros, had similar plans. They depended on the flax destroyed for the current season’s milling, and unless other supplies can he obtained over 90 employees will be thrown out of work.