To the Editor of the New-Zealander.

New Zealander, Volume 8, Issue 697, 18 December 1852, Page 3

To the Editor of the New-Zealander.

Sib, —Although the present does not appear to be the proper time to advocate commencing in New Zealand any more modern means of communication than that of roads, yet I cannot help hoping that the period is not far distant when we may expect to see required a more rapid transit than now exists between Auckland and the shores of the Manakau; whether in connexion with the anticipated Panama line of steamers, or with the further developement of the Sydney trade. I have already seen reference made in your journal to such imagined changes ; and my object in thus bringing this matter again before the notice of your readers, is to ask whether any well designed scheme has been adopted by the Government to meet an emergency of this kind, and whether lands are reserved for such a purpose. For a ship or boat canal from the Manukau to the Wahu Creek (to which your correspondents have referred) the lands in the most suitable direction for such a work are as yet unreclaimed, and, I believe, unsold ; but how is it with the lands lying in the most fit and proper line for a tram railway running between Onehunga and the town of Auckland? I fear from casual observation that in laying out the allotments, no such work has ever been contemplated or provided for. Possibly such a work may be considered unnecessary; but if it were found desirable to undertake it, the land would, I imagine, in a great measure have to be repurchased at a very great outlay, as the present line of road would be unsuitable for the purpose. Without, however, confining myself to internal communication in particular, permit me to proceed and enquire further, whether the proper authorities have had under their careful consideration plans of such improvements affecting our town, as come within the limits of probable requirements in these our go-a-head days, —as for instance : the supplying of water to the town —its mQre efficient drainage —the lighting and. paving of its streets —the repairing and forming of its roads —regulations for the future safe construction of houses, dwellings, and buildings — and the most eligible plan for the quays — wharves —repairing docks, &c. ? I do not mean to ask whether upon all these subjects the Government can possibly be in possession of data sufficient to enable it to cany into effect projects of such magnitude and extent, as soon as funds may be provided for the purpose; but whether any well digested and entire scheme combining all these requirements has ever been fairly laid down as a basis to be acted upon in all future proceedings affecting it; and whether the proper officers of the Crown have retained such lands in their own hands as may be needful for its being carried into execution at some future period. I hope that my object in making these enquiries will not be misunderstood. The present arrangements for the safety and salubrity of the town are as yet avowedly defective, and it is to be hoped, that in order that Auckland may continue to flourish and prosper, any Official Board appointed under the New Constitution may have its early and careful attention directed to the consideration and study of such a scheme, and the best means at the disposal of Government for carrying it into effect as early as the necessity may demand.—l am, &c, H. Auckland, Dec. 13, 1852.