THE SIGN OF THE TAKAHE

Press, Volume LXXII, Issue 21938, 12 November 1936, Page 14

THE SIGN OF THE TAKAHE

MINISTER’S VISIT preservation of bush “I can well appreciate the value the Christchurch people place on the Summit road and the novelty of the work undertaken at the Sign of the Takahe,” remarked the Minister for Internal Affairs (the Hon. W. E. Parry) yesterday after inspecting the work being done on the building. “I consider that /what has already been accomplished is worthy of high commendation. When the f .11 plans have, been carried out, the work will not only be viewed as of national importance, but as an achievement of which citizens of today and to-morrow will feel proud.” The lay-out of the scheme—the work of Mr H. G. Ell—and of the charm the. 53 miles of road will give to it when it is completed, were explained to the Minister by Mr J. A. Thompson, the paymaster, who stated that it had been decided to add the Parry crest to the main wall of the building as a tribute to the assistance the Minister had given to the work. Reference was made by Mr Thompson to the need of official protection being given to the native bush covering miles of the road under construction.

“It is a pity that there should be need to ask for State protection along this beautiful road,” said Mr Parry. “I am surprised to find at many of the places I visit that some of our native bush lovers have to make similar requests. I admire the enthusiasm of these citizens in trying to safeguard the Dominion’s tree beauties; they render a noble and patriotic service to their country. These country-loving citizens do not want to see the countryside denuded of its bush grandeur now and for all time, and they merit the thanks of the nation for the foresight and enterprise they have shown.

“I will make special representations to the Minister for Lands (the Hon. F. Langstone) to see if, as suggested, a ranger could be appointed to ensure a greater measure of protection to the bush adjoining this beautiful road, which I can see so greatly adds to the charm it will give to all who travel along it.” The Minister subsequently addressed the men who are employed on work at the Sign of the Takahe building and congratulated them on their craftsmanship.