THE WONDERFUL NORTH

Auckland Star, Volume LX, Issue 46, 23 February 1929, Page 12

THE WONDERFUL NORTH

POPULATION AND WEALTH.

marvellous development.

EX-PREMIER'S testimony.

(By Telegraph.—Own Correspondent.)

DARGAVILLE, this day,

"There is no district in New Zealand so capable of sound economic development as North Auckland," said the Rt Hon. J. G. Coatcs at a complimentary conversazione tendered to him by tin electors of Kaipara last night. 'It ; 8 already (excepting the centres') carrv. mg more population to the square mile than any portion of the Dominion. Within three years sheep have increased bya quarter of a million, dairv cattle bv 50 per cent, pigs by 500 per cent and butter production is up by hundreds of tons. Within a couple of years communication will be completed, linkiii' the north with the city of Auckland and roads which can lie used in all weather; and railways will lie approaching completion and will enable farmers to obtain fertilisers at reasonable cost. I would say to the Government it is absolutely essential that the railways scheme should be developed, enabling faster expresses from the north to enter and leave the city morning and evening during the four hours' peak traflic." He had personally looked into the position and had found that at present it was an absolute impossibility to handle another train, though it would mean a probable saving of upwards of an hour to northern passengers.

Mr. Coates had an enthusiastic reception. The speakers included the Mayor (Mr. F. A. Jones), the chairman of Hobson County (Mr. V. Trounson), Mr. D. H. Fitness (member l'or Otamatea County), Mr. Poimht Teawha, who spoke for the Maori people.