"GUARD YOUR FORESTS"

Evening Post, Volume CVII, Issue 12, 15 January 1929, Page 11

"GUARD YOUR FORESTS"

DR. SCHMIDT'S ADVICE

A BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY

"This is the second time my wife and I have had the pleasure of being in Wellington," said Dr. Johannes Schmidt, cliief of the Royal Danish Ocean Research mission, speaking at the civic reception accorded to himself, Mrs. Schmidt, and members of the expedition at the Town Hall to-day. "Three years ago I was able to spend some time in the neighbourhoods of the Wangamzi River with its incomparable scenery, its most interesting Maori inhabitants, and its wonderful eel fisheries. And on this occasion since, landing at Auckland, we have seen your thermal. wonderland at Rotorua, tho firefly eaves at Waltomo, one of the most beautiful and impressive sights which I have ever seen in all my many travels, and many scenes of mountain, river, and forest" of unforgettable beauty.

A GREATER FUTURE,

"No wonder it has been suggested that as Switzerland, has become the playground of Europe, so New Zealand may become the playground of the world. But I am sure New Zealand is destined for higher things than that. The high standard and steadily increasing abundance of your flocks and herds, and the numerous up-to-date dairy factories are eloquent signs of a vigour and enterprise which will not rest content with merely catering for tourists—though you do .that very well. But while. I admire the material progress and commercial enterprise of New Zealand I would warmly support those who are 'anxious to conserve her unique natural possessions of primeval forest.

"In these forests alcue New Zealand has a heritage to be treasured. In Denmark we are proud of. our 900-year-old trees;. in New Zealand you' have such old trpes in such numbers, that you are inclined!to forget how precious they are. Where can such kauri forests as yours be seen? Our forests are full of wild, flowers—your forest trees are themselves loaded with flowers, and your fern beauty is unrivalled except by that, which flourished' when the world was young. . „- N- . . ......

"Whilst much of the forest has necessarily been felled, you are wise in the policy you have actively followed for some time in re-afforesting ■'. areas not suitable for other purposes. Preserve what you can, for the admiration of visitors like myself, for the perpetual enjoyment of. your own., sobs : and daughters; and in preserving the forests, you ywill' also assist in preserving your wonderful bird life.

"Beturning to Wellington „-after an absence of three years I am surprised to see the progress that has taken place in that short time—so many new buildings; such commodious and handsome buildings. If'tho whole of New Zealand is advancing at a llike rate it speaks well for the great future of 'this beautiful Do/ninion."