Roads 1879

(FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.) December, 24th.

The past week has been noticeable for heavy rain and much wind, consequently the roads do not improve, but are in a worse state than they were two months ago. The Mungapakeha road folly is or should be a warning to those who are empowered in laying off [building?]  roads, as in this case wind, sun, and metal have been entirely ignored. At present I see the teams attempting to get along this frightful road of seven miles, and with considerable difficulty that is accomplished in two days.

 Johnson's contract is not finished yet, owing to the delay in getting timber for the culverts. He will lose considerably on this work. Who is to blame? The Whakaroa creek is passable some six chains above where the old bridge was, and in order to do this several deep and wide ditches have to be jumped. It is not safe in flood. 

As anticipated, after all the opposition and grumbling, we are without a clear road. 

Mr Macara ventured through from Masterton to Castlepoint with a buggy and pair a short time since, but was heartily sick of the trip, and it is absurd to think a coach will come through till things improve. 

Business generally appears rather dull here. I notice the Tinui Hotel is now finished and locked up, pending some arrangement with the landlord and the lessee.

The Telegraph Department are having a very accommodating addition made to the Post and Telegraph Office here. This room is for the public, and will be a very great improvement upon the limited space that is used for the same purpose now.

The school broke up on Wednesday last for the Christmas holidays, but, I am sorry to say, without any treat for the little chicks. Mrs Hansen, the matron, has gone south for her holiday. Castle Point presents activity. T