ATHLETIC PARK.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 49, Issue 199, 8 June 1929, Page 6

ATHLETIC PARK.

OBJECTION TO VALUATION.

(Per Press Association.) WELLINGTON, June 7

The Wellington Rugby Union, in the Assessment Court, objected to the valuation of Athletic Park at £16,645. It was stated to be part of a Native reserve vested in the Natives for all time. It was contended that, on the basis of rental, the value should be £IO,OOO. Mr Mackenzie claimed that the valuation was the market value, and said that the Maoris had a perfect right to sell the land if they liked. Counsel interjected that it was a reserve for all time.

Mr Mackenzie said that might be set aside. At any rate, the Maoris had the right to put the land to its best use. When the valuation was fixed by the Court the Rugby Union would have the right to call upon the Valuer-General to value the park as a sports ground at 50 per cent, less than the value on the rolls. But, if such a reduction were made by the Court, it would give the Maoris a reduction in rates and land tax, which they were not entitled to.

Counsel: The Maoris could not use the land for its best purpose because of the City Corporation Empowering Act—which gives the corporation power to take the land over in the event of the Rugby Union not being able to meet its obligations and use it for all time as a sports ground. The case was held oyer.