MERCER

Pukekohe & Waiuku Times, Volume 7, Issue 388, 2 July 1918, Page 1

MERCER

On Saturday, last the Waikato, ! which was then steadily rising, was 7J feet above summer level. For I some miles the flooded water has covered the paddocks and the top i wires of the dividing fences are scarcely discernible. Around the Maori huts and the Maori Pah by the riverside the water has risen to such an extent that it is impossible to approach the native dwellings without the aid of a boat, and there is every indication 'hat before long the dusky tribe, which number some hundreds, will be compelled to leave their present habitations on account of the steadily rising water. Up to the present boats belonging to the Waikato Shipping Company have been able to continue their regular trips but if the river rises much more it is feared that the boats will be unable to pars under the various bridges Landing cargo at different landing places has been carried out with difficulty on account of the water having risen above the landing places. The Mercer Patriotic League are arranging a Social and Farewell in honour of Private H.Childs tomorrow evening, and a good attendance is anticipated. It has been decided to hold the meetings of the Waikato River Board on the first Saturday in each month, and the first meeting under the new arrangement will be held on Saturday next.