RANGITOTO FINANCE.

Auckland Star, Volume LIX, Issue 75, 29 March 1928, Page 16

RANGITOTO FINANCE.

DIFFICULTIES OF THE BOARD.

CONSTRUCTING THE NEW ROAD.

"We shall have to consider our whole policy with regard to works on Rangitoto," declared Mr. E. Aldridge, chairman of the Rangitoto Domain Board, at last night's meeting. "The present position is that we owe the Devonport borough funds over £400, and this money must be recouped so that we may do justice to our obligations in the borough."

The discussion arose when the clerk to the board, Mr. A. E. Wilson, stated that circumstances had now interfered with the board's receipt of revenue from quarrying works, by which the board was financing the construction of the new road to the summit. This left the revenue now dependent on rents from shack sites and a penny toll on ferry tickets.

The chairman explained that about 20 prisoners were still working on the island, and that the board's obligations on their behalf included transport, tools and explosives. They were doing wonderful work, which had to be seen to be appreciated.

Members of the board agreed that in rendering the beauty spots of Rangitoto accessible, the present operations were of the greatest value. "I am sure that public support would be forthcoming if it were known how much money was required to complete the road," said Mr. T. Walsh.

It was stated that about four miles of the road from the landing had now been completed, and Mr. A. T. Griffiths was instructed to ascertain the probable cost of the finished work, on receipt of which information the board would definitely decide upon their future policy.