ESTATE IN RANGES

Auckland Star, Volume LXXIV, Issue 74, 29 March 1943, Page 4

ESTATE IN RANGES

CHURCH'S PURCHASE

FOR YOUNG BAPTISTS' USE

One of the finest properties in the Waitakere Ranges, an estate of about nine acres and a large house, formerly owned by the late Sir George Fowlds, has been acquired by the Auckland Baptist Tabernacle for the use of the young members of the church. Situated near the Henderson Valley Road and within 250 yards of the Scenic Drive, the property offers a wonderful panoramic view of the city and of both the Manukau and Waitemata Harbours.

Hearing that the property was in the market, Dr. Alexander Hodge, of the Baptist Tabernacle, approached several well-wishers and was thus able to purchase the property for the use of the young people of the Tabernacle for camps, retreats, picnics and so on. The acquisition of the Waitakere estate marks a new era in the Tabernacle's work among the young people.

"We' have in mind the provision of a holiday camp for our young men when they return from the war," said Dr. Hodge this morning. "We look forward to great development in the post-war years. A camp equipment fund will shortly be launched. Until they are able to purchase the property outright themselves, the young people will have full use of the house and grounds with complete freedom to develop them according to their requirements. The first camp will be held at Easter, when from 50 to 60 young women will occupy the premises."

A representative of C. F. Bennett, Limited, the agents for the property, said that of the nine acres of the property . there were six acres of beautiful bush, which could be made into a scenic park with a swimming pool in the midst of it. The remaining three acres were cleared, and one of the paddocks would make an ideal playing area. There was a tennis court already on the property. Among the features of the house were a large lounge 40ft by 18ft and a tower room giving a wide view all round. The other rooms of the house would provide accommodation for camp supervisers.