While sinking wells for artesian water on property near the Napier Boys' High School a Hastings well-borer, Mr H. A. McLean, discovered a supply of combustible gas, which became apparent when the pipe had reached a depth of 160 feet. The gas was allowed to flow for three days, during part of which it was under high pressure and roared through the pipe with sufficient force to blow sand from underground into the air. In all, states the “Daily Telegraph,’ about 12 tons of sand was expelled by the pipe, and when the gas was ignited a flame shooting five feet into the air resulted. This, however, was extinguished for safety purposes. Natural gas pockets are known to exist in Napier.
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Wairarapa Times-Age, 26 July 1940, Page 5
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121Untitled Wairarapa Times-Age, 26 July 1940, Page 5
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