FIFTY YEARS AGO

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXI, Issue 21910, 20 September 1934, Page 8

FIFTY YEARS AGO

PROSPERITY OF AUCKLAND BUSTLE AND ACTIVITY In marked contrast to the economic stringency of the past few years wad the prosperity evident in Auckland half a century ago. Immediately after the close of the Maori War a difficult period was experienced, but a good recovery was made. Commenting on the situation, tho Herald of September 20, 1884, stated:— " During many months the evident prosperity which prevails in Auckland has b<sen a subject of surprise and wonder to the people in the South Island. The prosperity of this part of the colony is not due to the expenditure of public money, for the Government have dealt that out to Auckland with a very sparing hand; nor can it be said that the Government have aided the development of Auckland's resources at the expense of the rest of the colony. The very reverse of this is the case, for in the opinion of Auckland people this part of the colony has been treated more like a heglected step-child than as a legitimate member of the New Zealand family of settlements. "To this neglect is probably due to some extent the prosperous condition of Auckland to-day. The people, driven upon their own resources, and denied the aid and encouragement many less important districts have received, re* solved to 'paddle their own canoe.' "The result is now patent to any visitor, after having seen the other large centres of population in thil colony. Instead or gloom and stagn** tion, the northern city shows a degree of bustle and activity which is qui** refreshing." i