THE HOT LAKES CHRONICLE AND Tourists' Journal. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 1896.

Hot Lakes Chronicle, Volume 4, Issue 209, 5 December 1896, Page 2

THE HOT LAKES CHRONICLE AND Tourists' Journal. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 1896.

The construction of a carriage drive to the summit of Ngongotahu has been long looked forward to by residents as likely to considerably enhance the attractions of the town in the eyes of visitors. Application was made to il'c Government time after time to wlace a sun. of money on the estimates to cany out the work, and though it was more than once promised, nothing resulted until Mr Seddon brough'. down his schedule for the proposed expenditure of the £50,000 vote for the development of the scenery of tliecoiony. It was then seeu that £250, a sura utterly inadequate for the purpose, had beer, set aside. As this was however suflicie'.it to start the work and carry Ihe a bout half way up it was unnecessary to comment on the matter, more especially as votes for public works in this district have frequently been exceeded. We now learn that it is not the intention of the Department to proceed with the carriage drive but instead to construct a Oft track to the summit anil so keep the expenditure well within the amount voted. This is simply absurd in view of the fact that in the Jubilee track we have an excellent path for pedestrians, and even for horsemen to the summit. A 6ft track winding round the mountain and exposed to the glare of the sun could never compete against the Jubilee track which goes through the bush the whole way, is completely sheltered and delightfully cool on the warmest day. We would urge upon the Town Board the desirability of communicating with the Department and urgimr as strongly as possible that at least a 10ft road should be constructed. This could be done at a small extra outlay whereas if this (ift track is made it is a foregone conclusion that it will be little used.