THE RIMU GOLDFIELDS.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LIII, Issue 44, 1 June 1910, Page 2

THE RIMU GOLDFIELDS.

THE WATER POWER QUESTION. BRIGHT PROSPECTS. By Telegraph—Press Association. Hokitika, Tuesday. The question of an adequate supply of water to work the Rimu goidtields, ..as at last been practically settled. When the Prime Minister visited this district, he was interviewed in regard to the amalgamation of three water-rrglits of forty heads each, which had previously been granted for the purpose. Owing to the long distance over which it is necessary to carry the water, it was found that unless these rights were amalgamated so as' to bring the supply through one channel, the cos- would nave been too great to undertake the scheme. Sir Joseph \i ard telegraphed to-uay, after conferring with the Minister of Mines on the matter, that it would be necessary to surrender the individual ik-eiisf and make fresh appdications to the Warden for one right of 120 heads. Sir Juseph Ward, in the course of his telegram, stated that if this suggestion were acted upon the Hon. R. McKeuzie would consent to the fresh license being granted. The Prime Minister pointed out that there was' no power under the Act for amalgamation, and there is no power to enable the Governor, by Order-in-Council, to bring in clause 3 of the mining regulations, as were the Uovernment to do so, it would be illegal. When the license for the 120 heads has been granted by the Warden, it is proposed to form a company with a capita of £250,000 to undertake the bringing in of the water, and insulating the necesasry appliances to successfully work what has' for many years been an almost abandoned auriferous field. The negotiations with London financiers in regard to the necessary capital are well advanced, and t'he promoters are assured that the prospects of raising the large amount required are partqicularly ibright. I