MANGAHAO ELECTRIC SCHEME.

Otaki Mail, 5 March 1919, Page 3

MANGAHAO ELECTRIC SCHEME.

Mangaliao was’ revisited by representatives .1 the various local < dies, drawn from the Wellington, Hawke s Bay, Eangitikei, and Wanganui districts. Many of those present had already inspected the proposed scene of operations, but as the delegates lacked ’'official guidance then they were practically in the dark as to the extent of the scheme. On Friday they were ae-. companicd by Sir William Fraser (Minister of Public Works), Mi Parry, Mr L. Birks- (Mr Parry’s successor), and Mr Ivissell, who will bn first lieutenant to Mr Birk? In addition, Mr Parry had explains previously in detail all the importm t aspects of the scheme, and the viftors knew exactly what they were ’ looking at. Closer , acquaintance with the scheme only increased their enthusiasm as to its value and its immense possibilities. They realised at once that the groundwork had been solidly laid, and that there was no fear of failure as far as Mangahao was concerned. The delegates thoroughly appreciated the lucid explanations which the experts willingly gave them; they appreciated the fact that they were being taken into the confidence of those responsible for its planning. Most of- all, they were delighted at the prospects cf an early completion of the work, and will, go home with a- feeling of satisfaction not unmingled with relief. Mangaliao has been waited for patiently —perhaps impatiently—in some circles, and now that patience is about to be rewarded. It is a notable fact that Sir William Fraser went right to the head of the works—a troaclierous journeyover very rough, steep country. Much of the journey was acomplished by him on horseback. It was a journey which many others shirked, and the shirkers were not slow to ap’-cciato to the full the Minister’s pluck ana -endurance. He was; loudly cheered by the'delegates on returning to the picnic grounds.