THE TOURIST TRAFFIC.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LVI, Issue 17112, 18 March 1919, Page 8

THE TOURIST TRAFFIC.

MANY OVERSEAS VISITORS.

DOMINION'S GREAT ASSETS.

TOXGARIRO AND W AIK AREMO AN A. An exceptionally largo number of overseas visitors have lately arrived in Auckland, and the local Tourist Department Bureau has dealt with many inquiries as to travel and scenic resorts throughout New Zealand. The restrictions on travel and prevalence of influenza resulted in a very quiet period for the bureau at the beginning of the season, but business is now brisker than it has been for some considerable time, this being duo to .the recent Arrival of several largo oversoas steamers. Keenest intorcsi is shown by the now arrivals in the Dominion's scenic attractions, and many inquiries have been made regarding the fishing, showing that interest in this sport on the part of Americans and other overseas visitors is well maintained. "Many people who inquiro, about Rotorua are greatly interested in tho prospects of fishing," said one of the tourist' officials yesterday, '' and there is ever)- indication that when travelling conditions revert to normal it will be one of the Dominion's greatest attractions. Many British otlicers will doubtless make their way out here for health reasons, and to such, trout-fishing offers ideal sport. Kingfishing is attracting many sportsmen, but it is too strenuous for others, and to these tho fishing in our lakes and streams appeals strongly." The fame of the Tongariro National Park is becoming known m America, and overseas visitors have on several occasions made inquiry as to accommodation there. The fact that there is as yet no accommodation there, save for campers, has been a matter of keen regret to many, who from afar have heard of the splendid scenery and unique attractions of this mountain region. Judging by the inquiries made, and the enthusiasm of recent visitors, Lake Waikaremoana is another resort which Aucklanders and overseas tourists would bo glad to visit, were there better facilities for access. Although readily accessible from Napier, tho trip from Auckland involves a 71-mile journey by motor and coach from Rotorua to Ruatahuna, ending up with a long day's ride of 25 1 miles taken with a Maori guide through very rough _ country. The Waikarcmoana trip, with its magnificent scenery, and the National Tarlc are considered by authorities with Ion" experience of tourist traffic to be Auckland's most valuable scenic assets, and they express the convict'on that if made readily accessib'e to visitors these places would immediately become immensely popular.