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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Auckland Provincial District]

Laundries

page 379

Laundries.

Auckland Steam Laundry (John Steer, proprietor), Ligar Place, Grafton Road, Auckland. Telephone 743. Bankers, National Bank of New Zealand. This successful laundry was established fourteen years ago by Mr. Steer, and has from a small beginning worked its way to a foremost position in the city. The premises are large and lofty, and recent extensive alterations have made the laundry in every respect up to date. A delivery van and two carts are kept fully occupied, and drying-rooms and a boiler-room have been erected on account of the increased work thrown on Mr. Steer's hands. Originally there were three drying-rooms, each with a capacity of 150 shirts, and also a large packing-room. The laundry is well looked after by Mrs. Steer, who had a thoroughly practical training in the Home Country.

Mr. John Steer was born in Sussex, in 1833, joined the army at an early age, and received his education in the regiment. He was on active service during the Indian Mutiny, took part in several of the leading battles and sieges, and holds a good conduct medal. After he was discharged from the army, he followed various occupations till 1884, when he decided to try life in New Zealand, and on settling in Auckland he established his laundry, which, with the alterations which he has carried out, is now one of the best appointed in the province of Auckland. Besides his large hotel trade, which includes the Grand Hotel, etc., Mr. Steer holds a special appointment from his Excellency the Governor.

Hanna, photo.Mr. J. Steer.

Hanna, photo.Mr. J. Steer.

Wigg, Thomas, Auckland Steam Laundry, Upper Queen Street, Auckland. Telephone 733. Private residence, Upper Queen Street. This business, which was established by the present proprietor in 1881, grew to such an extent that Mr. Wigg found it necessary to extend his premises, and some time ago he made alterations, which transformed the laundry into one of the best in Auckland. The machinery is of the latest type, and includes hydraulic washer, ironing machine, centrifugal wringer, etc. At first the motive power was supplied by a gas engine, which has now been superseded by a complete steam plant. Twenty hands are employed in the laundry, and three horses and vans used for delivering. Mr. Wigg has an extensive family connection, besides holding the contract for the Northern Steamship Company, and special appointments to the Governors of New Zealand for the last seventeen years. The laundry is under the supervision of Mrs. Wigg, who received her training in the Old Country. She served her apprenticeship to the New Shirt and Collar Dressing Company, of London, and has held responsible positions in several leading laundries. Mr. Wigg was born in London in 1851. He came to New Zealand in 1880, and twelve months afterwards established his present business.

Hanna, photo.Mr. T. Wigg.

Hanna, photo.Mr. T. Wigg.