SUFFERERS BY BUSH FIRES.

Otago Witness, Issue 2817, 11 March 1908, Page 52

SUFFERERS BY BUSH FIRES.

DISTREBUTION OP GRASS SEED. NEW PLYMOUTH, March 3. Regarding the grass seed distribution to settlers, though Sir J. G. Ward's telegram stated that seed would be furnished, to all who suffered by the fire, the applicants here are being informed that the accommodation for four years without interest is only for settlers who are unable to purchase seed for themselves.

THOUSANDS OF ACRES SWEPT. SEVERE LOSSES.

AUCKLAND, LJarch 6. Mr Mackenzie, Crown Lands Commissioner, who has just completed a tour of the Kaiwhia district, states that some thousands of acres have been swept by fire. Tekauomoa. and the Oparau Valley suffered most, the latter being practically burnt out. Many of the settlers must sacrifice their stock on a failing market. The dairy farmers also suffered severely, there being many severe oases of individual suffering and loss. Mr Maokenzie was surprised at the splendid courage of the settlers in facing their misfortunes. WHANGAREI, March 6. Serious grass fires at Whatitiri are caus- - ing muoh destruction and discomfiture. Already the clearings of 10 settlers have been cleaned bare. A number of sheep have perished, but cattle-owners managed to get 1000 head into the shelter of distant bushes. Over 2000 acres have been left as barren as a desert. A six-roomed house recently built, and' owned by Mr lelfer, was totally demolished. Unless heavy rain intervenes the fire may continue for some miles further to the Wairua -■ River. Two men were cut off yesterday, but they made a perilous dash into safely.