WATAROA NOTES

Grey River Argus, 18 August 1949, Page 2

WATAROA NOTES

(Our Own Correspondent)

Amongst ten trucks of fat cattle which went to this week’s Addington market from Westland, several were from Weheka and Wataroa. Prices this year show an advance on previous years, especially as the control has been lifted off retail prices, inducing butchers to bid higher and charge more. The Franz Josef Glacier in recent months has exhibited at the terminal face a noticeable change. The little lake at the foot of the glacier has been obliberated as moraine has increasingly filled the valley. The sightseer is benefited at least to the extent that he can mount the ice within twenty minutes of leaving his car. The ice is flowing toward the hostel at the rate of a foot per day. The change of aspect in the terminal sector of the glacier during recent months is not to be realised by those familiar with sight when it is seen. With the filling up of the crevases the view is more beautiful and the service at the hostel, with its comfortable bus service, is destined to remain in keen demand. Messrs Geo Middleditch ard A. McBride (junr.) of Rotomanu have been visiting’ Wataroa, renewing old acquaintances while they have .the op-

portunity of a let-up. Messrs D. Murray and W. Whitehead of Christchurch, have been recent visitors here. The former, who is a new arrival, is delighted with New Zealand.

Sports patrons who went from here last week to the C.J.C. meeting had rather a disappointing .experience the shrewd heads rather helping to put condition on the noble horses than to fill their own back pockets with cheers. Snow from Arthur’s Pass to Springfield, no doubt, was a sight worth while noting, and skiing could be enjoyed by such as could so exploit the situation, but even it amazed; more than one traveller would have rather had his feet to a nice fire with a glass of milk and a cherry smile than a bootful of beautiful snow. „ Old time South Westlanders are ready to recognise the comfort and convenience brought by rail cars. with easy seating and courteous officials Remembering the hard times of previous generations, it makes one wonder how much the country has been netting better. We are indeed living in times of health, wealth and prosperity of which every fair minded person should be proud.