The Guardian (And Evening Star, with which is incorporated the West Coast Times.) THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1938. FOCUSSING ATTENTION.

Hokitika Guardian, 10 February 1938, Page 4

The Guardian (And Evening Star, with which is incorporated the West Coast Times.) THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1938. FOCUSSING ATTENTION.

Attention is very properly focussing on speeding up the great south road works. This is very timely, as with tne centennial period approaching in twu years’ time, the road should be advanced as far as possible if the dedication is to be fully effective. The Government has done a great deal and more would be done quickly no doubt, if essential material could be imported more rapidly. While therefore there is unavoidable delay with bridges particularly, there should be ample labour available to push on the road formation and metalling. It has now been realised generally that the Government has acted wisely in setting about this national work so thoroughly. Access is the first essential for development, and with the opening up of the country improvements will come rapidly. That has been the experience with the upper half of Westland, and the southern part isf no less stored with land and timber to give the first essentials for settlement and industry. One aspect of the recognition of the south road is the move to explore its attractions by setting apart scenic reserves before the woodman's axe is allowed full play, as well as a contemplation of the stages for the through journey. In respect to the former, officials are now engaged nn*an exanfiniition, while in regard to the latter it will be interesting to know the decision, for good accommodation will require to be provided at stages. As far as Weheka, 112 miles from Hokitika, travellers are well served. To Maintain is about 33 miles, while from Maintain to Haast is 90 miles. Ha net will bo, the junction not only for the Jackson Bay and Eglinton route to be opened, but also for the Haast Pass, where the road from Otago is already approaching. From Haast to Maknroa is 47 miles, but the terminus would probably be at Pembroke, Lake Wanaka. Actually a two days’ service from Hokitika to Pembroke would be possible, and then travellers would have the choice of'continuing by the various routes afforded through Central Otago. But many travellers will be disposed to linger by the way, and enjoy the peculiar beauties of the route, which will be found in such variety. One location in particular likely to become famous with visitors, will be the valley of the Landsborough. The river is the main tributary of the Haast running far back in the high country to the Hooker glacier. It wilt be popular for mountaineering and deer stalking particularly, but its pleasant Hats will attract campers and holiday-makers for it i 3 an attractive region. Already aeroplanes land in the valley. There are many other places of interest, and Jackson Bay will have its own interests to attract, with its marine novelties in sealing and fishing, and a visit to the lobster beds. There will be so much to visit and set 1 in the extensive southern region, that the sooner this new playground for the world of tourists is opened up the quicker will the Government have the pleasure of seeing fresh revenue rolling in for the benefit of the national funds, and a near community grow up to add to the potential wealth of the country. The speeding up of the south raiding therefore becomes a work of outstanding national interest.