MERCER

Pukekohe & Waiuku Times, Volume 6, Issue 294, 20 July 1917, Page 3

MERCER

1 Not only is the Waikato rapidly rising—at the time of writing it is 7ft above summer level—but the flooded water is spreading itself so slowly but surely around the township that there is the probability it will meet the Waikato if the latter overflows its banks. As the result of the water flooding the timber mill the mill has stopped. One reason for the IficrGasing volume of water finding its way so rapidly over the paddocks is diie to the rush of water from the Pokeno hil's having overflowed the banks. Instead therefore of following its usual course the water has taken a straight course and is flowing towards the township on the Waikato side of the railway line. There is no immediate cause for alarm, but on Tuesday tight last the water rose 4 \ inches and is not likely tcs suddenly subside, A Maori woman could be seen on Wednesday paddling her canoe - an old fashioned one—on the flooded water and judging from appearances it looks as if she will be able to cross and recross to her heart's content. A large party of 20 black swans could also be seen swimming together on the flooded water a few yards from the railway line at Mercer, while numerous other water fowl were disporting themselves in the noonday sun. The " Freelander " leaves to-day for Hamilton on her first trip with about 600 cases of benzine brought up by barge from Onehunga. There being only one nomination for the vacancy on the Mercer Town Board Mr Roy Glass, the candidate, has been declared duly elected.