H—2

The past year was remarkable for the length of the dry spell experienced, and the Rotorua system was able; to cope with the domestic demand by limiting the use of hoses in gardens, but outlying areas stand in need of increased reticulation. During the year a Commission sat to decide the future ownership of the Rotorua water-supply. Pending the result, and at the request of the Borough Council, no major works were undertaken in the borough. Maintenance work only was carried out. ; The failure of the hot-water supply from Whakarewarewa has increased the amount of cold water being used at the baths, since it is found necessary to. reduce the very high temperatures obtained from the steam-bores in use. The only major work of importance carried out during the year was the •complete reticulation in 4 in. cast-iron pipe (with full provision for fire services) of the State housing block. ■A survey of domestic connections was made, which will eliminate many irregularities and result in increased revenue. The sewerage system is in need of some reconstruction owing to chemical action affecting pipe-joints and manholes in certain limited areas. The operation of Electricity Control Regulations made it necessary to put the Diesel standby pumping-plant into use in order to maintain continuous pumping during power shut-downs. If the ownership of the water and drainage systems remains with the Department, consideration must be given to the complete revision of the by-laws relating to these systems. (3) Baths and Sanatorium.—As pointed out in last year's report, the level of Lake Roto-a-tamaheke is still too low to be of practical use for the purpose of obtaining hot water. Various other sources, of hot-water supply liave been investigated, and the work is still proceeding. In the meantime, the Baths and Sanatorium are depending on hot-water bores and the Rachel Pool in the Government grounds, these proving adequate at the present time for all requirements. The production of hot water from bores necessitates a hot-water storage reservoir in the grounds. Use was made of vats for this purpose, but they proved inadequate, and a new vat or reservoir with a maximum capacity of 75,000 gallons was constructed at a cost of £6OO. The temperature of the water is maintained at over 160 degrees f. As soon as building materials become available the construction of a further hot-water storage vat is envisaged. This will provide an alternative reservoir and allow for better operation. (4) Gardens ami Reserves'.—ln spite of the handicap imposed by the long, dry summer, a very fine floral display was maintained. The playing areas and, in particular, the bowling-greens were given special attention and a high standard reached which was favourably commented upon by visiting players. Development work was carried out in various sections of the gardens, and the results will become apparent in the future as the work proceeds. (5) Buildings.—A great deal of essential repair work necessarily lapsed •during the war period. The more urgent of this work' has received attention, but with a limited staff and shortages of material there still remains much to be undertaken to restore several buildings to first-class condition. At the Main Baths, following the necessity of shutting down the southern wing, a new women's bath has been constructed in the northern wing. This toath is a temporary expedient pending restoration of the southern wing.

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