LAND FOR RETURNED SOLDIERS.

Otago Witness, Issue 3212, 6 October 1915, Page 12

LAND FOR RETURNED SOLDIERS.

NELSON’S CLAIMS

NELSON, September 27. It is felt in Nelson that Mr Massey’s statement, that whilst believing “ Nelson was the best district in the country for fruit-growing, he was afraid the price of the land there would be too high,” may give a wrong impression. The Advancement Society has prepared a statement showing that proved apple laud can be purchased in blocks at from £4 to £l2 per acre. The cost the first year of clearing, ploughing, fencing, trees, and planting, was £lO per acre, the second and third years £4 an acre. The fourth year pays for the work and expenses. It is pointed out that the high initial cost does not mean dear land. Orchard properties at Stoke which have been turned over at £SOO per acre are still paying the purchasers. The Nelson fruit lands do not require irrigation or shelter trees, and no late frosts are experienced there. These factors greatly reduce the working costs. It is argued that when all these factors are considered Nelson, with its mild climate, offers the best opportunity for farms for returned soldier*.