VISIT TO TAKAKA

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXI, 16 January 1928, Page 2

VISIT TO TAKAKA

MUCH -ENJOYED OUTING On Saturday 130 members of the Summer School joined in the much-look-ed-forward-to trip to Takaka. Twelve of Newman’s cars left the Velma Hall at 8 a.m. laden with an animated party of teachers who anticipated a pleasant and interesting day in a district richly endowed with natural beauty. Certainly they were not disappointed since typically Nelson weather prevailed, making tiio sea coast and the surrounding country appear clear and welldefined in the early morning sun. -As the cars sped through the Waimea plains, many learned and educational discussions took place-and it is rumoured that some were able to name without effort various crops which grew in wayside -fields. The hop gardens in the Moutero district - were admired as also were the-woll-set-out apple orchards. The first stop was made at the picturesque Motueka High School. The next pact of the journey was taken up with crossing the Takaka hills. . As the cars ascended higher and ' higher, glimpses of the widening plains extending to Tasman Hay and the abnost indistinguishable hills of Nelson beyond, .were obtained at every bend in the road. As the top was neared, the visitors noted with Interest tiie sudden change from a more or less bush-covered country to a barren region, due partly to, destructive bush fires and partly to sudden outcrops of marble for which the hills? are famed. •A 1 visit, to the Kairuru caves was ' an agreeable surprise. The entrance is well hidden beneath a marginal slope that commands a fine view of the bay and distant islands. Many descended into the cave’s depths after being provided with candles. These caves aro of limestone formation and fairly extensive but lack of time prevented many from extoo far. The descent to the plains was made through a very beautiful bush area-splashed with flowering ratas and cluipps of mistletoe; Arriving at Takaka, the party then proceded to Pohara beach. This is certainly one of the beauty spots of the district. The rocky coast line gives variety to the landscape while the sandy beaches and facilities for fishing make it nn ideal camping spot. After bathing and lunch the visitors proceeded in parties to the Trirakohe Cement Works. Later in the afternoon a visit was made to the famous Pu Pu Springs which were of particular interest since they are one of the largest fresh water springs -in the ' world. The wonderful colouring effects brought about by the sun, sky and crystal depth of water was particularly fine and many remarked on these being similar to Rotorua. Although the party was delayed by several young folk becoming detached from the main body of sightseers, it ■eventually arrived in the late- afternoon at Upper Takaka School where tea was prepared for the teachers by Mr Sparrow and helpers. After Mr Spensley. Walker (Auckland) took the opportunity of thanking Mr Thornton and executive for their untiring efforts and for the success of the day’s outing which had exceeded all expectations. Cheers were then given for Mr Sparrow and colleagues for preparing the tea and before leaving on (he homeward journey all joined in singing “For they are jolly good fellows.” The, long drive back to Nelson was tiring but the brilliant- sunset and quiet twilight did much to eliminate tin's feeling' of weariness. However, the party arrived in Nelson at 11.30 p.m., after a very enjoyable day’s excursion.