BLOCK FOR SETTLEMENT.

Auckland Star, Volume LXII, Issue 18, 22 January 1931, Page 11

BLOCK FOR SETTLEMENT.

LAND CI<|OSE TO DAJtfNEVTRXE

AREA OF OVER 2000 ACRES,

(By Telegraph.—Own Correspondent.)

WELLINGTON, Wednesday.

The ■well-known" Okarae Block of over 2000 acres, near Dannevirke, is to be opened for settlement early in March, according to a statement by the Hon. E. A. Ransom, in his capacity of Minister of Lands.

Mr. Ransom stated that the opening of the block had been delayed on account of the difficulty experienced in settling a claim for compensation for permanent improvements carried out under an old native lease over the land which had since expired. However, the question had been adjusted recently in an eminently satisfactory manner. The total area of the block was 2087 acres, and it had been subdivided into six farms ranging in area from 106 acres to 650 acres. The smallest subdivision ■""as suitable for dairying, three of medium sizes ■were suitable for mixed farming, and the other two were suited to sheep and cattle grazing. Generally speaking, the block comprised good, healthy land close to a good market, the greater portion being easy rolling country and the balance flats along the Manawatu River.

The land was originally scrub country and native grass land, with portions covered in native bush. The hilly portion carried good danthonia pasture, and about 60 per cent of the block was ploughable. Many inquiries had been received regarding the land, and the Minister said he was of the opinion that there would be very keen demand for the various subdivisions.