WAIPORT

Tuapeka Times, Volume VII, Issue 337, 11 March 1874, Page 3

WAIPORT

(From a Correspondent.)

March 9th.

The weather at the close of last week was anything but agreeable. On Friday evening, about 7 o'clock, rain commenced to descend, and continued without intermission until the following evening, when it gradually cleared up. Yesterday morning, which was extremely cold, considerable surprise was expressed at the wintry aspect borne by the Laminerlaw and surrounding hills. This mountain was covered with snow to the depth of an inch or two ; but, after the lapse of a few hours, it rapidly disappeared. In mining matters there is nothing fresh ; everything being very dull. The heavy rain of Friday and Saturday had the effect of flooding the river. Considerable damage was done to claims ou the flat, which were completely swamped out in many instances. I notice also that one or two flumes were partly carried away. This was the heaviest flood we have experienced for the past three years. Operations have commenced in the vicinity of the drainage channel at the lower end. From twenty to thirty miners are employed. This number would be considerably augmented were it not for other inducements offered at the present time throughout the province to the miner. Several old and respected miners left some time ago for the harvest at Oaraaru, and also for the Tuapeka Railway works. I' have not the slightest doubt but that they will return shortly and avail themselves of the opportunity of being employed in the construction of the channel. The rate of wages paid is, I am informed, 9s. and 10s. per day of 8 hours. I shall fuvniek you wifck a few particulars of this work at some future date.

Mr. G. Morrison, the contractor for the erection of a new school, completed his contract at the end of last week. The building is both substantial and commodious, and will afford ample room for the tuition of the rising generation. I hear that Mr. Neil, the teacher, will arrive some time during the week, and will commence his dutfes immediately. Harvesting operations appear to be in full swing. The crops, generally speaking, are on the average good. Oats is the principal crop.