100 YEARS AGO
FROM OUR ARCHIVES
Fire blight rampant in North Island
AUCKLAND: Serious developments in regard to the spread of the orchard disease known as fire blight are reported, but commercial fruit growing areas in the north of
Auckland are still practically free from the disease. The disease is ravaging pear and apple trees in the district between Ngaruawahia and the King Country for a radius of 25 miles. In the Tauranga district, between Katikati and the lower Opotiki the pear crop has been ruined by the blight. The actual fruit area affected comprises about 20 acres, and the
trees attacked total approximately between 1300 and 1400. The trees have the appearance of having been killed outright, just as though they had been ravaged by fire.
Teviot farms being surveyed
In the Teviot and Hillsprings settlements, two surveyors are now completing the survey, and rentals are being assessed. This property is to be open to discharged soldiers. The total area is about 22,000 acres freehold and 48,000 acres leasehold. It is expected that the Government will have the settlement ready for selection by the end of March.
Successful bird scarer
A correspondent forwards the Cromwell Argus particulars of a successful bird scarer. Between stakes at each end of the special crop to be protected binder twine is stretched. From this are hung on string, pieces of tin six to eight inches long and two inches wide, the tin
being bent something in the nature of a propeller blade, thus causing the tin to revolve. It has been found most successful.
Saturday half holiday soon?
There are increasing signs that a universal half holiday is coming (says the Southland News). The latest convert, who is setting an example to other members of his trade, is a butcher in South Invercargill, who from now onwards will close at 6:30 on Friday evenings and 12:30 on Saturdays.
Crooks busy during Cup Week
Many crooks were expected to go hunting in Christchurch during Carnival Week as usual. Hotel thefts have been the most common in past holiday seasons and they have been made very easy by the carelessness of boarders in not locking their rooms. A warning has been given by a police officer against carelessness with money or valuables.