THE KAIPARA INQUIRY.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVIII, Issue 2577, 4 February 1910, Page 5

THE KAIPARA INQUIRY.

A STATEMENT AS TO DAMAGE

[Per Press Association.] AUCKLAND, Feb. 3. A statement as to the damage suffered by the Kaipara by grounding in the Rangitoto Channel Avas given on behalf of the New Zealand Shipping Company to a “Herald’’ reporter on inquiry. This shows that in all 21 plates on the starboard side of the vessel are more or less buckled, and require renewing or training into position. The damage to the plates starts at- the keel plates, and while running out and up to the sixth row or stroke it extends along the total length of 130 feet, from under the foreliold to the afterpart of No. 2 hold, where the rolling chock commences. The rolling chock is twisted like hoop iron for several feet. Owing to the storing in of the plates in question the corresponding “floors” at the back have been affected, and consequently require renewing or straightening. The same inplies to the polo irons. The floors of several of the tanks have also been buckled, and will require renewing or straightening, while the whole of the insulation in tanks Nos. l and 2 will require replacing. In addition to these extensive injuries the steamer lias been slightly damaged in other units, consequent upon the strain she received in striking, and the subseouent. raising with the assistance of tugs. The decks will require attending to. and the winches and other machinery will need to be overhauled. One of the starboard nropeller blades has been broken off, and will require replacing. How this injury was obtained is not exactly known, but it is sumx>sed that it was caused when the vessel struck. The repairs, which Anil occupy some seven or eight Aveeks, will require to be carried out under Lloyds’ rules, so that the vessel may retain her character in the register. Tenders have been called for the repairs, and are to be returnable at noon to-day. For this reason the officials in question declined to give any estimate as to what it would take, to repair the damage.

TENDERS RECEIVED. Tenders for repairs to the Kaipara were received by the NeAv Zealand Shipping Company N to-day, the amounts being cabled to London, and are not to be disclosed in the meantime.

THE SHOAL SURVEYED. The chief survey officer of H.M.S. Challenger made a survey of the 'shoal in Rangitoto Channel for the Marine Department to-day.