No Access Road

Northern Advocate, 28 May 1940, Page 8

No Access Road

In the economy proposals for the coming year there has been a suggestion to the Mangonui County Council that the free grant on the estimates of £7OO for Churton's Road be cancelled. It was very difficult to get this vote, and now, when the realisation of a long-deferred hope seemed on the point of realisation, it is most discouraging to the man who, 12 years ago, took up virgin land, cut off from all communication from the main road by any means excepting a sledge, and practically isolated during the winter months. An “Advocate” reporter visited the property on Friday and obtained a few facts which should be pressed home to the Department with a view to having proper access provided even in such a time of financial stress as this. The farm was taken up 12 years ago, when it was covered with tea-tree. With much self-sacrifice and arduous toil a large area has been laid down in pasture and quite recently the area under grass has been extended by cultivation and sowing at considerable expense. Two of the Churton brothers are on active service and in order to carry on the farm another brother is giving up his trade as a carpenter to take charge. To approach the modest residence in the winter months, it is necessary to deviate from the rough path used in the summer, at many points, to avoid the slushy conditions along the regular route. Gum boots are necessary, and only resolute people, with hopes for the future would stick to a farm with such an incredible access. It is little wonder that the Mangonui County Council showed disapproval of the cancellation of the vote, and decided to make strong representation to the Department on the matter.