R. W. Rugg

“ Stock inspectors also make a regular ante-mortem inspection of stock offered at the fat stock sales, and condemn all stock, before slaughter, whose condition warrants it. Stock condemned at the Abattoir does not become a total loss to the owner, a small amount, in most cases, being paid as compensation by the Government, the balance, over and above the small sum obtained from the sale of the diseased meat, being met by the Condemned Stock Insurance Fund, to which the majority of the butchers contribute. ”

“ Prior to the passing of "The Slaughtering and Inspection Act, 1908," it was customary for the butchers to do their own slaughtering, the slaughterhouse, Richmond, being largely used for this purpose, although some did their work under most insanitary conditions, in backyards, stables, etc. In 1907 the City Council decided that the premises at Richmond were totally unsuitable and inadequate, and that a new and up-to-date abattoir was essential. ”

“ This property is favourably situated for an abattoir, being a very narrow strip of land lying between the Waitemata and Manukau Harbours. The situation, exposed as it is to the prevailing westerly wind, ensures a cool breeze on the warmest day in summer, which is very beneficial to the meat; fresh, cool air being a well known preservative. ”