ALPINE ORGANISATION.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVII, Issue 20668, 13 September 1930, Page 10

ALPINE ORGANISATION.

A good thing has been done in forming a federation of alpine, tramping, ski and winter sports clubs. It is the outcome of a realised need for some sort of voluntary, non-ollicial body to speak for the increasing number of those seeking to enjoy the scenic delights of the uplands of this country. As was gratefully recognised at tho conference initiating this movement, Governments have done well in dedicating the regions known as National Parks and in providing certain facilities for oversea tourists and New Zealanders able to take advantage of this provision. Nevertheless, if these regions are to he really national —possessed as well as owned by the people of tho Dominion—care must be taken to make them accessible to those now in danger of being shut out by prohibitive charges. Such a federation as that now formed ought to be able to exercise a useful influence in this way. There is strength in numbers, when they are organised, and the federation will be empowered to speak with a united voice the things begotten by expert acquaintance with facts. It is very broadly based, including so many clubs, and this will enable it to speak for more than its own membership; a very useful purpose will be served for the benefit, of the general public, especially if there be granted the very reasonable request for representation 011 the boards of these parks. On one point the initialing conference has wisely laid emphasis—the need for adequate supervision of the mountaineering tracts. So far there has been lacking an adequate system of control, particularly in the licensing and employment of guides. Hitherto this has been somewhat haphazard, and in the interests of safety—an element in the popularity of these resorts for climbers and trampers—proper organisation should be speedily introduced. There is no necessity to make vexatious regulations, but there have been so many regrettable accidents and fatalities that the aim of the federation in this respect calls for little argument. The novice is apt to hold dangers cheaply in the folly of ignorance. No pastime is so deceptively perilous as alpine climbing, and bush-clad heights hold risks that only the experienced appreciate. Hence the desirability of adequate supervision, including scrupulous care in the licensing of guides. To put things on a better footing, in every sense, is a task that the federation may advantageously pursue, using its influence in an advisory and co-opera-tive capacity. The Government and the park boards should cordially welcome this proffered aid.