Ships For Trans-Pacific
pp. 29-30 · Read in the full issue
Services
VARIOUS reports, generally to the effect that when the RMS Aorangi ceases the Sydney- Vancouver run in May the Matson Line will re-enter the trans-Pacific service with 25-knot vessels, were discounted on January 24, when the Matson Co. announced that it had no plans for such a service at present.
Indications are that, when the Aorangi is withdrawn, a trans pacific mail and passenger service will be carried on by a couple of the Carpenter motor-ships of the Lautoka class—fast vessels of around 10,000 tons, carrying over 100 passengers.
While Trans-Pacific trade is paralysed by dollar shortages and import restrictions, there is nothing much to tempt new shipping con cerns into the field. The Carpenter interests, with vessels now serving their established interests, already are running to a fairly regular schedule.
“Te Ao Hou”, described as a magazine for the Maori people will make its debut in May, 1953.
Something close to a world record high in prices for petroleum pro ducts must have been reached in the New Hebrides where it is re ported that petrol costs 7/9 per gallon, kerosene 6/6, diesel oil 6/and white spirit for pressure lamps, 8/8. It is said that there is a “certain amount of buyer resist ance”.