The Guardian And Evening Star, with which is incorporated the West Coast Times. FRIDAY, JANUARY 17, 1936. MINISTERIAL VISIT.

Hokitika Guardian, 17 January 1936, Page 4

The Guardian And Evening Star, with which is incorporated the West Coast Times. FRIDAY, JANUARY 17, 1936. MINISTERIAL VISIT.

The visit of the Hons. R. Semple and P. C. Webb, holding important portfolios in the Labour Government, j,s a matter of special interest to this district. The visit coincides with the opening of a new era in the history of the district. For long, Westland suffered from isolation, and it has taken time to break down the barriers, and create an interest in the. possibilities. Westland represents an important section of the West Const of the South Island. In the North Island the West Coast of that more favoured area, has long come into its own, being linked with all parts of the Island. Hero, the connections have long been delayed, with practically only one portal to the main parts of the island. v So it has. come to pass that the larger . part of Westland, stretching to the south, has been neglected and the isolation has been maintained by the continued lack of roading. The south district has demonstrated its. ability to come into its own, as roads have advanced. Yet how unkindly the district has been treated. Promised roads and railways in the past, the hopes have not materialised. 'I he railway was cut short some twenty five years ago, and the promise of an alternative road Ka.s not exceeded 80 miles or so in length, in the same period.

Hut there were promises always, end a hopeful confiding people waited for fulfilment, it remains to be seen whether the new Government will act where former Ministers failed. The resources of the district are many and varied. They should he known to the Government, for this district is a vast area of Crown lands, and as the people’s estate it is due to the managers of it to know their own possessions. Here is a great extent of territory, highly mineralised to begin with, as the easily won gold proves, but still with its fastnesses unexplored, its deep levels excepting in one instance, untried. There is land in plenty awaiting settlement, land which produces the finest stock and the highest quality in products, pastoral achievements demonstrated in the world markets and open competition. There is in Westland supplies of timber for an indefinite period available for requirements and industrial enhancement. Great forest areas are appropriated to i'lie State, and ,a Ministry unmindful of its treasure will surely seek to use it wisely and reproductively to earn the most from so rich a natural asset. Improved means for transport are urgently required as a first consideration, and given that, industrial expansion will follow thick and fast. In this verdure clad territory with its rivers, lakes, mountains and glaciers, there is a natural paradise containing nature’s gems which go to make ,a natural wonderland. This asset is of world interest, and is new bringing fame to New Zealand as our scenic reputation spreads. With all these resources and attractions it is difficult to believe Westland can be left to languish indefinitely. The Government should recognise its obligations and assist to open up the country, for further industry, settlement and travel. Westland will well repay the attention. It has the latent possibilities within its -'oil, forest* ana scenery to lift it ahead, and given that opportunity, will open ,a new country for the industrial and settlement advantage of the Dominion, two factors most urgent just now to build up Internal developments.