SCENERY PRESERVATION

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXX, 2 October 1936, Page 7

SCENERY PRESERVATION

MUCH TO BE DONE DEPARTMENT'S REPORT (United Press Association) WELLINGTON, This Day. The number of scenic reservations in the Dominion is now 980, covering a total area of more than 705,000 acres, states the annual report of the Lands and Survey Department on scenery preservation, presented to the House of Representatives, by the Minister of Lands, the Hon. F. Langstone. Proclamations during the year setting apart land as historic reserves under the Scenery Preservation Act covered a total of 34,045 acres, continues the report. In addition, several important acquisitions were arranged, but final proclamations had not been issued at the close of the year, 31st March, 1936. One notable area to be taken over covers part of Mount Pirongia in the Waikato district. Reports from the various districts indicated that the year was an important one in scenery preservation. A few small fires occurred in different areas throughout the Dominion, but little damage was done. Discussing future operations the report states that much work still remains to be done in scenery preservation, many areas which should be owned by the State still being held in private ownership. The financial position of the country in past years had resulted in the department having to remain content with very small allocations. If it could be assured of a substantial annual vote the department could proceed steadily with the acquisition of areas of outstanding scenic interest.