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Communication with the West Coast.

In 1865 a valuable and extensive gold-field was opened on the West Coast of the Province, and it became necessary to establish machinery for the administration of local government and to provide means of communication. A survey of the Coast from the sea was made by the Provincial Port Officer (Captain F. D. Gibson) the small steamer Bruce (Captain Malcolm) being chartered for the purpose. Signal stations for the direction of shipping were established at Hokitika and Greymouth, but owing to the difficulties of navigation, and the consequent loss of ships, land communication was essential. The West Coast road from Christ-church to Hokitika was made, and a telegraph line was also erected. The cost of these, and of the local government establishment was a severe strain on the financial resources of the Province.