SHIPS FOR THE DOMINION

Taihape Daily Times, 14 December 1918, Page 4

SHIPS FOR THE DOMINION

FLEET OF PRODUCE CARRIERS. CHRISTCHURCH, Dec 13 Tlie general manager of the Zealand Shipping Company, Mr. A. W. Bennett, has been informed that, in addition to seven steamers to load in New Zealand in January and February more than 70 have been nominated to - load from Australia and New Zealand in March and April. Twenty of the ships are regular New Zealand traders, and it is probable that this number will be increased., . Among the 20 it is expeeted there will be four of the company's own passenger steamers. It has been stated that the average y of the 70 vessels is 10,000 tons, but t Mr Bennett does not think this is: correct. He believes that in the list are a few very large steamers, while there are many comparatively small carriers. Thirty-four of the 70 afiT insulated. A'. All the steamers probably will havo returning troops on board for Aus'fralia and New Zealand and Mr. Bennett' estimates that they will be able to carry an average of .1000 men. each.