NEW PLYMOUTH HARBOR.

Taranaki Daily News, 21 November 1919, Page 4

NEW PLYMOUTH HARBOR.

AS FIRST PORT OF CALL FOR AUSTRALIAN SHIPS. (By Wire.—Own Reporter.) Hawera, Last Night. The prospect of a direct mail Bteamer connection between Sydney and New Plymouth was discussed by the Prime Minister to-day. "There is no doubt in my mind that there will be a connection between New Plymouth and Sydney sooner o r later," 'said Mr. Massey. "I know that thai port at New Plymoutn has mide wonderful progress, and I know that the big home liners "can now berth there in safety." Is the Government prepared to make New Plymouth the first port of call for mail boats? "I cannot say that, but lean say that the Government realises that 'New Plymouth is nearer to Sydney than Auckland or Wellington," Is it true that a well-known mail steamer will shortlv leave Sydney on » trial trip to New Plymouth! Mr. Massey: «As I have said, I believe New Plymouth is the nearest port to -Australia, and I repeat that sooner or later a mail boat will arrive in your port. T cannot say more." Will New Plymouth get the mail service? persisted the reporter. "I have already said that there is no doubt m my mind that the connection between New Plymouth and Sydney will be established. I cannot say more." Will we get Sydney mail boats coming to New Plymouth as a first port of call ? <( "Probably you will," said Mr. Massey, "but if you do I want you to understand that Auckland and Wellington will still be ports of call for mail boats. NewPlymouth has got a great chance, and I hope she will go forward to realise it."