HOST OF MOTOR CAMPERS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 27275, 29 December 1949, Page 4

HOST OF MOTOR CAMPERS

Late last evening dusty cars with caravans in tow or camping equipment packed in the back were still rolling into Tahuna Park motor camp as the daily equivalent of “ musical chairs ” took place—campers moving from one site to another, from the country to the city, lrom the lakes to the seaside. This morning, other parties will pack up and set off on the road for other places on their itineraries. But there will be many who dislike the discomforts attendant on changes and “ stay put ” in the one place for the whole of their holidays. Tahuna motor camp has certainly proved popular with visitors this year. Every one of the 42 huts and 10 cubicles in the camp was full yesterday and while there was room for more tent or caravan parties, the camp could be considered crowded. While it is a floating population, the last few days have seen an average of 120 parties—each party averaging five people—in the camp. One surprising feature this year had been the number of hitch-hikers on the road, commented travellers and the camp caretaker alike. Apparently there are still generous drivers about, for the hitch-hikers seemed to make good time between towns, Christchurch to Dunedin in a single day being a normal accomplishment. For most people, however, the uncertainty of hitch-hiking would be a considerable deterrent, while, as one man said yesterday, “ I would like to see anyone who was game to try hitch-hiking with a wife and three youngsters.” Australia, as well as New Zealand towns from Auckland to Invercargill, has been represented at Tahuna over the past few days, while the past two evenings have seen large-scale temporary increases in the camp’s population through the arrival of large groups travelling together by bus. “As far as I'm concerned, I’m perfectly happy, here." said one man to the Daily Times. “There is the golf course just over the fence, and mum can take the family along to the beach or the park for the day.” “ We have generally gone up the lakes or some such place, but we thought we would try town for a change this year,” said another man. “ One good thing about a holiday here is that there is something to do if it

An 18-foot dual-axle caravan at the Tahuna Park camping ground yesterday. The interior appointments are all that a housewife on holiday could desire. It is divided into two compartments—the kitchen and dining room—and the sleeping quarters. The kitchen is fitted with a range, a stainless steel sink with running water, ample cupboard space, a large cupboard for crockery and utensils, seating accommodation covered in uncut moquette, linoleum and rugs on the floor and a built-in radio. The sleeping quarters are spacious and well-designed. Features of the caravan are the windows, which circle the front. They are all curtained and fitted with blinds.