Half-plate (landscape format). New Zealand flax fibre,used for manufacture of binder twine and ropes, is exported to Australia, Canada, and England: obtains a better price than mainland hemp. Shannon Mills turn out 1000 bales and 200 tons of finished hemp per month. 140 to 180 men are employed at these mills: wages 162/8d per day: board arranged at 15/6 per week inclusive. In N.Z. different districts have separate awards: this district of Shannon has secured the highest wage award for flax workers in the country. [Showing rail track between two areas of uncut flax, also seen in 6970-6971]. |