Attraction of the North

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23037, 14 May 1938, Page 12 (Supplement)

Attraction of the North

WHILE excellent progress is being made with the reconstruction works in connection with the main arterial route between Auckland and the Far North, there does not appear to be any appreciable improvement in other highways in the Northland district, according to a report submitted to a council meeting of the Automobile Association (Auckland) last week by the touring manager, Mr. R. E. Champtaloup. With the general advance in the roading system of the Dominion, such a report "is a little disturbing for it reveals the fact that the North is not progressing as fast as some of the southern districts. Northern interests of recent years have made a determined bid to capture a fair share in the Dominion's tourist traffic and the rapidlyincreasing stream of cars to explore the attractions of the North is ample proof of the possibilities of this district as a holiday playground. Tourists who -experience narrow roads, sharp corners, pot-holed and rough travelling surfaces, however, are not likely favourably to recommend the trip to their friends, and North Auckland may therefore lose the benefit of much valuable publicity and tourist revenue.

The touring manager's report certainly mentions that generally speaking the maintenance of northern roads

BAD ROADS HINDER PROGRESS

is superior to that which prevailed a few years ago, but in comparison with the higher standards prevailing south of Whangarei and Auckland, even theso improvements are insufficient to meet the demands of modern motor traffic.

At this stage in its history the North has a wonderful opportunity to capturo a very large proportion of the Dominion's local tourist traffic, and it is 110 exaggeration to say that there are thousands of residents in the southern districts whoso eyes are turned to the North for prospective holiday resorts.

Hotel managements have made very considerable improvements in the past couple of years, but motor camping facilities generally speaking are sadly lacking. The Northland is a paradise for campers, but to attract large numbers of tourists energetic and prompt measures will need to be put in hand immediately.