“Taranaki Central Press” THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 1937. THE PORT AT MOTUROA.

Taranaki Central Press, Volume IV, Issue 345, 28 January 1937, Page 4

“Taranaki Central Press” THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 1937. THE PORT AT MOTUROA.

Since our last article dealing with Harbour Development Works at Moturoa, we have found a growing interest in this most important work. Readers of the “Central Press" have written approving our effort tnd agreeing with us that it would be well-nigh impossible to over-emphasise the importance of the overseas Port to the whole of the Provincial District of Taranaki. The interest taken in Air Port development and aviation must not be allowed to overshadow the importance of the deep-sea port. We want all our readers to appreciate the fact that the Newton King Wharf is only approximately fifty hours away from Sydney, which is the largest city in the Empire, next to London. What prospects a fact like, this conjures up before the imagination! And this geographical position must be exploited in the interest of our province. It has been suggested by one correspondent that the Harbour Board should embark upon a scheme to connect Moturoa with Mikotahi with a sea wall. We are well assured that this proposal has been considered fully by the Harbour Board. They are all agreed that this would be a desirable work if it could be financed without the Board being crippled through the heavy and excessive cost. Other suggestions have been put before the Board, such as connecting Moturoa Island with the present Breakwater, at a point approximately in a line with the end of the Newton King Wharf or the Moturoa Wharf. This proposal would also be a costly undertaking and it requires careful consideration.. In the meantime the Board has decided to lengthen the Breakwater in order to reduce the effects of "range" in the harbour itself. As supporters of a vigorous progressive policy of development we are not criticising the proposal to extend the Breakwater. If this work is proceeded with and successfully completed, it must result in increased protection to shipping. Whether it is the most pressing need of the Port is open to consideration. The result of the report of the special commission to be set up concerning the control of cargoes will be eagerly awaited in Taranaki. Comment on that poirt will be made later.