TOURIST TRAFFIC

Evening Post, Volume CXXV, Issue 20, 25 January 1938, Page 15

TOURIST TRAFFIC

RECORD SEASON

RESORTS POPULAR

The present tourist season is proving the best yet experienced in New Zealand, all previous records being broken, the Minister in Charge of Tourist Resorts (the Hon. F. Langstone) states. A record number of overseas visitors have visited the Dominion and many more New Zealanders than usual have visited resorts in both islands. "Thousands of visitors spent their holidays at the Tongariro National Park," said the Minister. "Lake Waikaremoana also proved an attractive resort for a record number of visitors. Large numbers journeyed to' the lake by way of the new road from' Rotorua through the Urewera Country. Many tourists have expressed their admiration of the beautiful lake, the dense bush on the surrounding ranges, the forest tracks, and excellent fishing. "The famous Waitomo Caves drew a record number of travellers, motorists arriving from all parts of New Zealand. The remarkable glow-worm grotto easily upheld its popularity as being something unique among the show features of the tourist world. "There was a great flow of holiday traffic to the South Island resorts. The West Coast glaciers, Mount Cook, the southern lakes, Milford Sound, and the fiords attracted increased patronage, and there again tourists voiced their appreciation of the magnificent scenery. A number ol the world's largest luxury liners have visited New Zealand this season, and further cruises are in prospect. Among the notable ships still to arrive is the Empress of Britain, which is said to be the most luxuriously-fitted ship afloat. This fine vessel will call first at Milford Sound, followed by visits to Auckland and Wellington. "Altogether the success of this season promises well for the future, and the Department is working at top pressure to provide full opportunity for tourists and New Zealand people to see and enjoy the scenic beauty of New Zealand," concluded Mr. Langstone. 1