TOURISTS FOR THE SOUTH

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23952, 30 October 1939, Page 9

TOURISTS FOR THE SOUTH

ACTIVITIES OF TRAVEL ASSOCIATION WORK TO BE CONTINUED Although the war has brought about some restriction of tourist traffic, the South Islands Travel Association intends to carry on with the utmost vigour its campaign to attract tourists to the South Island. This was affirmed at the annual meeting of the association in Christchurch on Friday. The third annual report of the association stated; “A year, which despite, political and commercial disturbances, was marked by an increase in membership and in financial support, has concluded in circumstances which enforce a diminution in the volume of world’s tourist traffic. At the same time, it should be noted with pleasure that members approached for their subscriptions since the close of the year have in every case renewed and have urged that the association should continue its activities with as much vigour as possible, and to prepare for the coming of peace again, when a marked revival in travel interest may be expected.” Summarising the financial situation of the association, the report stated: “The total revenue for the year was £1230 9s 2d, of which £IO4B 16s came from membership and contributions. In the previous year the total revenue was £949, so that the increase in revenue was £2Bl, of which membership and contributions provided £126. The expenditure during the year was £1142, an increase of £lB over that of the previous year. Publicity Work “ Two regional guides have been added to the association’s series—North Otago and Central Otago—both of which have been published at the request of the regions concerned,” the report added. “ The association’s series of guides now covers Nelson, Marlborough, West Coast, Christchurch, Timaru, Dunedin, North Otago, Central Otago, and Invercargill. Additional supplies of three guides have been acquired by provincial court executives for use at the Exhibition. ‘ Discovery,’ for 1939, has been, issued, and was available in the first week of October. The support accorded these publications showed an increase on the previous year, and it is pleasing to record that the works show an advance in quality. During the year, the number of inquiries from overseas inspired by ‘Discovery’ was maintained, and gives further indication of the effectiveness of this work. The executive considered the question of taking over the full financial obligations in connection with these publications, and decided that the time was not opportune. The executive approved an arrangement by which the association maintains full right to determine what shall be published, the format and distribution, together with a share of profits, if any, but with no financial risk.” New Officers The following officers were elected:— President, Mr H. L. Gibson (Dunedin); vice-president, Mr J. A. Harley (Nelson) ; honorary treasurer, Mr C. H. Clibbon. Last year’s Emergency Committee was re-elected, with some additions. Tributes were paid to the services of the retiring president, Mr A. H. Allen (Dunedin), and the treasurer and staff of the association.