A NEW ERA

Hokitika Guardian, 13 July 1928, Page 1

A NEW ERA

THE DEVELOPAfEiNT OF WESTLAND’S GOLD-AIINING INDUSTRY.

(Contributed)

The opening up of closer relations between tho East and AVest Coast, judging by tho Otago farmers’ report on their return to their homes again, will no doubt tend to similar visits in the future, more or less an established fixture. Tho farmers had a very good support of late by the Government with satisfactory results to the farming Industry and the Dominion,

Reading the sub-leader of tho Hokitika “Guardian” (July 9th.) it should inspire - anyone who takes an interest in tho advancement of this district, and particularly that of our gold mining. >, .

Tfie history of jfast gdtii mining has proved without any doubt the existence' of. highly auriferous gold hearing leads, hut the difficulty surrounding their profitable development was beyond the power of the miner of those days, consequently the industry lias been dormant, waiting the ways and means to secure this hidden wealth. The change, however, that is taking place within the last few years by the introduction of the electric power and the establishment of the. West-land Power Board has made it now possible to- overcome the past difficulties' and with up to date machinery and appliances for the saving of the precious metal there is no reason to doubt that a revival of the industry in this district ns regards gold mining is within .measurable distance.

It would materially assist the district if the Government would take more interest in the gold mining of Westland by giving better inducement to further prospecting, something that would help the prospector in his work.

Now that the Parliamentary Elections will soon he the leading topic of the day and the candidates out for a test, it would not be out of place to make a special effort and to get the gold mining industry made a leading

point for the candidates- to support and to give his views as to the best course to get the industry on a progressive and sound basis.