In the Chips

Nelson's new wood chip venture had an auspicious start. Week by week the pile of wood chips at the port installation continued to grow, as piece by piece a new section of the loading plant was fitted into place against the hour when it would be used. The brand new ship, especially designed to carry wood chips, made a quick passage to Nelson and berthed without incident. The loading plant was given a trial run-a very satisfying run-and loading commenced in earnest. Three days later the vessel slipped quietly out of port bound for Japan with 15,500 tons of chips in her holds. A very auspicious beginning indeed.

But no new industry is without its problems, and this new industry has its problems, the major one of which is the noise level of the loading plant. This operates on a 24 hour basis while loading is taking place, and residents above the port have complained bitterly about the racket. And so the company has announced its intention of modifying the noise level.

Our picture above shows the Hijiri Maru berthed at McGlashen Quay as loading was well under way. Below: The start of the chipping process as the logs arrive for loading onto the conveyor. Right: The de-barked log passes Nelson mill manager, Mr Ron Wren, site engineer Colin Porter, Pat Porter, Margaret Wren and Colleen O'Donohue on the way to the chipper.

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