“A CENTENARY HIGHWAY”

Press, Volume LXXII, Issue 21806, 11 June 1936, Page 7

“A CENTENARY HIGHWAY”

PROPOSED WEST COAST ROAD CIRCULAR SENT TO PARLIAMENT The suggestion for the construction of a Westland-Otago-Southland highway by 1940, as a commemoration scheme of the centenary of New Zealand, is contained in a circular which has been forwarded to the Prime Minister. the Rt. Hon. M. J. Savage, and to other members of Parliament by Mr D. J. Evans, of Hokitika. The circular forecasts the suggestion to be ‘a great reading scheme to open up a motor touring route, which for variety ana charm would be the envy of the world in drawing visitors from overseas. « also emphasises the huge area of ian that would be opened up by the completion of such a highway. , “Just as there are natural wonders so there is natural wealth of great value in South Westland,” says circular. “A reference has been made to the land in the river valleys which will carry unlimited stock-given f acl f* ities for reaching markets. The forest wealth for the thousands of acres or bush lands involved must oe enormous. “The mineral deposits to be uncovered by improved access a hd assured supplies might reach a * ab hjous sum as new country is brought witnm the reach of the prospector. A reference has been made to a jetty at jacKson Bay, the best natural ocean P ort * n Westland. If it were provided, the result would be considerable industrial activity. .. .. “There is at present labour available in plenty for such an' undertaking, large as it is. Several major public works are drawing to a close and a surplus supply of labour will be avaiiTwo alternative routes for the road have been suggested, states the circular. One through the Haast Pass and the other linking the road up with the extension of the road up the Eglmtoa Valley road to Milford Sound. It is said that the Haast Pass connexion would be the cheaper proposition, but the connexion with the extension of the Eglinton Valley road would be invaluable to tourists, and would also open up the country between the Haast river and the Hollyford Valley. This road would ultimately be required even if the Haast Pass connexions were completed.