CENTRAL OTAGO.

Otago Witness, Issue 3756, 9 March 1926, Page 5

CENTRAL OTAGO.

MINISTERS ON TOUR. THE IRRIGATION AREAS (From Our Special Reporter.) QUEENSTOWN, March 1. “This is not social visit. Wo are hero to do business, to see the development of the country, and to come into touch with the poople. We have busy days ahead as we wish to gain all possible information to be able to speak in Wellington with a first-hand knowledge of the conditions throughout Central Otago." Such was the keynote of the Prime Minister’s opening speech on his tour of Central Otago made to the citizens of Lawrence this morning. The tour commenced when the official party left Dunedin by special train at 7.45 a.m. to : dav. Accompanying the Right Hon. Mr Coales vrere the Uou. O. J. Ilawken (Minister o: Agriculture)), Dr C. J. Keakes (Director-general of Agriculture). and Messrs *I. P. W -Railway Traffio Manager at Dunedin), 0. M. Benzoni (District Engineer), .1. R, Mark* (Public Works Engineer in Charge of Irr» gation), W. D. Snowball (of the Agricultural Department), F. D. homson (Secretary to tho Prime Minister), and L. K Johnson (Secretary to the Hon. Mr Hawke ~ At Millers Flat the Hon. A D. McLeod (Minister of Lands), Mr R. S. Galbraith (Commissioner of Crown Lands), Mr R. B. Tennent (Fields Supervisor for the Agricultural Department, and Mr A. W. Mulligan (Secretary to the Hon. Mr M’Leotl, joined the party. Mr M'Leod had visited the district in the morning, and. in company with the Agricultural Department official, inspected the Clifden Estate. Dul but fine and mild weather was experienced throughout the day, arid all business was carried out according to schedule, tho conditions being ideal for the strenuous work that lay ahead of the Ministers. MILTON AND LAWRENCE.

The first stop was made at Milton, where Mr Coates held a short private interview, after which the train continued its journey to Lawrence, which was reached at 10 «,m. There the parly was met bv the Mayor of the town (Mr J. K. Sunpeonj, the eoimcillor& and representative oitiseos. Chi bo half of the citizens of Lawrence, the .Mayor extended a very hearty vafowuo to tho Prime Minister and the Hod. Mr H&wfcen. He said that Mr Coates was by no metum a stranger to them, Put this was his iir»t visit in the official capacity as Prime Minister of the Dominion. . Tfce speak* , wished to express the confidence of the people in Mr Coates as Prime Minister, and ho poped that the tiiiie would not be long before he was able to make a second visit. Tho oitizeus of Lawrence had been extremely anxious that he should be placed in tho position that he now held, and h* hoped that every post would be made a winning post in the business of controlling the country. The Mayor then led :u cheering the visiting Ministers. “On behalf of Mr Hawkbu arid myself 1 wish to thank your sincerely for vour hearty welcome,” replied Mr Coates. “We appreciate it,' for we will need all the patience and goodwill of the people in tho task that lies ahead. *Tho Government intends to try and improve the country’s status and see that_ the welfare-of the people is catered for, but wc cannot accomplish everything on a basis of legislation.' The progress ot the country lies to a great extent with the individual inhabitants. We con only administer the laws with an even hand, do our utmost to improve matters bv careful legislation and work towards the high ideal for which the Government stands. We do not think we shall let you down. The coming days oi going to be busy ones, for we want to see all we can and be able to talk on tho spot as Public Works, Railways, Agrieuture, and Lands Ministers. We shall be able to see and learn in the districts we visit, and find where it is necessary to improve ti policies and gauge the rate of development conaistent with the conditions." Tho Hon. Mr Hawken said that as one of the new members of the team he waa quite new to the district, but could see that it was a very fine one. His duty was to helD in every way to increase the productivity of the country, and for that reason he, with the other members of tho party, was particularly interested in' the irrigation areas that were to be visited. Irrigation in Central Otago was one of the biggest schemes that had been undertaken to increase productivity, and it was hoped that the visit would make a great difference to. and help in the wise guidance of the department. AT MILLER’S FLAT.

The party left Lawrence at 10.20 a.m., and after a little less than an hour’s run through the beautiful gorges beside the Molyneux River, Miller's Hat, the terminus ol the line, was reached. A brief atop was made between stations at Cusey‘s Bluff where Railway Department officials and the Ministers examined, the work progressing on a recent minor slip near the river bank.

At Miller’s Flat station the Ministers met various deputations. Mr Roderick Macdonald (chairman of the Tuapeka County Council) applied to tho Prime Minister for an additional grant to maintain the roads in the Teviot settlement. He said that £750 had already been granted, but that had now been expended and the roods were in a terrible state. Unless further improvements were made the money already spent would have been wasted.

The Hon. Mr M‘Leod: Was the money given as a straight-out giant? Mr Marks: It was the balance of the loading subdivision.

The application was supported by Mr T. Stoekdill. (a Teviot settler) who said that about six settlers in the district had no roods in winter and were getting no return from the rates paid to the county council.

“It looks like a matter for the Estimates.” said the Prime Minister. “We shall consider it when compiling the current year's estimates.” Mr L. Faigan (another settler) introduced the question of district irrigation which, he said, had not been commenced by the Public Works Department. Mr Marks said that 1200 acres were required and when applications had been received from a sufficient number of settlers

and the contracts had been signed, the Department wa6 prepared to go ahead with the work. 'The approximate cost was 18s per acre. A petition introduced by Mr J. Sheeny (hotelkeeper) asking that the time of starting the train from Miller’s Flat be changed from 12.25 p.m. until 1 o’clock on the grounds of public convenience wa* referred to the Railway TriiHc Mfwiisjsr (Mr West). •He dial! see if 5- Few dimutes can be. cut off ” said Mi Coates. RAILWAY CONSTRUCTION. Grateful appreciation of the speeding up of the railway construction work between Miller’s Flat and Roxburgh was expressed by all the settlers in those districts who mot tho Ministers. The official party left Miller'g Flat by motor shortly' after midday and journeyed in warm sunshine to Roxburgh. A brief halt was called at a Public Works’ construction camp of 60 men where the Ministers inspected the hutments and expressed appreciation at the excellent order in which the camp was foUm '' ROXBURGH’S WELCOME. At Roxburgh the party was met at the Post Office by the Mayor (Mr J. L. Rooney), a large gathering of citizens, and the pupils of the District School. The Prime Minister was heartily welcomed by the Mayor, who congratulated him on the position he had gained as leader of the country, and expressed the hope that he would be long spared to hold the position given to him by the people at the la3t poll. As Minister of Public Works the people of Roxburgh were indebted to him for the way in which he had speeded up the railway construction from Miller’s Flat, and the great interest he had taken in the irrigation work in Central Otago, Mr Coates thanked all present for the rousing reception that had been accorded him. Such welcomes encouraged the Ministers aud himself to serve the country to the beat of their ability. He also thanked' the children for being present in such large numbers, and he delivered a short address to them. As far as the railway construction work was concerned, said the Prime Minister, no one would be more pleased than he to see the work completed, and the line opened up for the use of the settlers in the district. He was glad that the engineers and men wore giving every satisfaction. ROUND TABLE CONFERENCE. Lunch was served at Roxburgh, and a little time was spent in an inspection of the nearby irrigation work. After lunch the Ministers met a representative gathering of settlers at a short round table conference. The Mayor acted as chairman, and introduced Mr John Bennetts (president of the Railway League). "On behalf of the league members and the ratepayers at this end of the Tuapeka County - am very proud to welcome you,” c%id Mr Bennetts. “We look on yea as our benefactor, for nothing is so important to the district as the meann of transport, and wc have learned to admire your successful policy as Minister of Public Works. We would not have liked you to pass through without thanking you for what you have done, as quick transport ie vital to the fruitgrowers, and we are proud and thankful to sea the extension of the railway to Roxburgh going on. We hope to have the use of the line next year, but if not, then the year after.” The speaker was supported by Mr R. Glendining, as secretary to the Railway League, who expressed the great appreciation of ail the settlers, and hoped that the present progressive policy would not be relaxed. In every way the extension of the line would be a great boon to the district, and during the last year the amount of work that had been done between Miller’s Flat and Roxburgh was surprising. IRRIGATION ON LIGHT LAND. Mr J. George, representing the Roxburgh Irrigation League, introduced the matter of irrigat on on light land which, he said, was causing considerable anxiety to settlers. He wished to bring under the notice of the Ministers the fact that much of the land marked for irrigation was topped by only a few inches of soil, and he considered that Mr Marks had been a little over-optimistic. There was such a great distinction betwen the better and poorer class of land that some sort of differential rate would have to be struck, as many settlers holding poorer areas were doubtful as to the result of the irrigation work.

Mr Coates: Do the landowners want to get out of the contract they have made? Mr George: No, but they did not anticipate the department dealing with this poorer class of land at the rate of 16s. It was doubtful, he added, if the revenue would be sufficient. Another point was that at the present time surveys were going on over these lands, and there was just a danger that they would be cut up too small to be of any practical value. He referred to the racecourse flat and the banks of the Molyneux River. Mr Hawken: What is the area that a man should have to make it a payable proposition?

Mr George: It depends on the situation and the quality ot the land. The land I refer to would not grow a tree. In reply to the spoakers Mr Coates said he hopod the railway would bo of real value when it arrived, and that the residents would hang on to it. The Government was doing all it could to help, but with the big interest to meet on railway expenditure it could not cut down freight rates. In regard to irrigation it was of great value to Central Otago and the Government recognised the vital importance of carrying on on the lines of the statements made to the public. The Public Works Department could not play fast and loose with public moneys, and he knew that every right-thinking farmer did not want something for nothing They wished the facilities to make the land payable, and the Department was thinking out schemes of payment on a table system. Regarding the question of the poorer classes of land he did not pretend to know all about the position as it affected Roxburgh. but he had absolute confidence in the ability of Mr Marks. The work was to a certain extent experimental. The Government was giving the Department’s engineers scope for experimental work. Mr JVTLeod said that any opinion as to the size of the land division could be obtained only on a judgment of the result of the present irrigation work. He appreciated the anxiety of settlers, but the scheme would have to be tried out.

Mr Hawken said that the Department of Agriculture would give the benefit of its advice and assistance in every way. Its officers had made a special study of the Question, and he could say definitely that their assistance would be at the disposal of the settlers. AT FRUITLANDS.

The official party left Roxburgh at 2.30 p.m. and in the heat of the afternoon motored to Fruitlands, where a small gathering of settlers greeted the Ministers. Messrs A. Lindsay and T. Phillips applied for advances to the fruit farmers and assistance for four farmers in the district. The position was Briefly discussed and the Ministers promised that the matter would be gone into. Mr Coates observed that the probable stabilising of the fruit market might allow something to be done. FAST RUN TO QUEENSTOWN. After leaving Fruitlands the party called at the Earnscleugh Flat and inspected the progress on the 10 acres of experimental irrigation work that is in progress there, and the journey was continued through Clyde and Cromwell and on to Queenstown, which was reached as dusk fell. A particularly fast run was made, and though the party was late in leaving Fruitlands Queenstown was reached on schedule time. PROTECTION FOR QUEENSTOWN. Fear that Lake Wakatipu will invade Queenstown when the Kawarau dam is completed and the water passes the high level it has attained was expressed by members of a deputation consisting of the Mayor (Mr A. Simpson) and Queeustown councillors which waited on Mr Coates this evening after his arrival in Queenstown. The Mayor was the first speaker. “The lake is now at a dangerously high level," he said, “and we appeal to you to consider the question of making the four chains of wail on the water front. Mr .MArks and I have examined this, and he agrees that a rubble wall may solve the problem." “I am afraid that I am somewhat iu opposition to the Mayor," said the Rev. H. S. Bishop (councillor). “The harbour foreshore is under the control of four authorities, and I suggest that the Government fake steps to vest the whole in us so that the whole water front may bo treated.” The town was a tourist resort, and it was necessary to give it some protection. Already the water came up the maiu street on occasions, and when the dam was completed and the lake was still higher than at the present time the water would be coming in through the windows. The Government should help, as the town waa a toursit resort. “All right, a survey shall be made,” said Mr Coates. PUBLICITY SCHEME. The Rev. Mr Bishop also appealed for the support of the Government in the publicity scheme for Queeustown organised by the newly-formed Progressive League. Pamphlets had been devised, and were being printed, and It was hoped that the Government would lend Its assistance In the distribution of literature and general publicity for the reeort. “You told us the last time you were here that the Government would help us if we helped our selves," he 3&14. “We have helped oarselves by framing this league." The Prime Minister said that all possible assistance would be given. KAWARAU DAM INSPECTED. THE IRRIGATED AREAS. PEMBROKE. March 2. The ministerial tour of the Central Otago district continued this morning when tne official party left Queenstown en route for Pembroke at 9.15 a.m The weather was perfect and good time was made throughout the long trip. Too oar ß called at the site of the Kawarau dam when the Prime Minister (Mr Coates), the Hon. A. D. M'Leod and the Hon. O. J. Hawken examined the progress erf the work on the dam. The hall waa a brief one and Mr Coates was favourably impressed with the amount of work that had been accomplished since his last visit to the locality. The party then continued on to Lake Hayes where the beneficial effects of irrigation on a large field of lucerne, the property of Mr L. Lee, were examined. The paddock was particularly suitable for observations being taken, as portion had been irrigated, while the lower slopes had been loft io their natural condition. The Ministers were shown the groat difference in the growth on the various sections of the paddock and also the methods of irrigation used by the owner. AT ARROWTOWN. From Lake Hayes a non-stop run was mode to Arrowtown which was reached at 9.15 a.m. There the Ministers were met in the main street by a representative gathering of settlers and townsmen, including members of the borough and county councils. On behalf of the Lake County Mr W. Reid (chairman of the county council) extended a warm welcome to the Ministers and congratulated the Right Hon. J. G. Coates on his gaining the position of Prime Minister of New Zealand. He also thanked him as Minister of Public Works for his prompt starting of the irrigation work as had been promised when the Government asked the settlors to sign up. He was satisfied that it wa* the hest thing that had ever happened to the district and oil the settlers were optimistic as to its ultimate complete success. Asked by the Prime Minister if there were anv 'natters in connection with irrigation that required the attention of any of the visiting Ministers those present said they were completely satisfied and there was nothing to bring forward.

An appeal for Government assistance in connection with county roads that were carrying a large amount of outside traffic was made by Mr Reid and'the Mayor (Mr L. Adams). Mr Adams said that, one and a-quarter miles of rood from a little past the Arrowtown Hospital to the centre of the town were badly in need of repair. He applied for a grant to gravel this as it was n main motor road and the upkeep was particularly heavy.

Mr Reid asked the Government to consider the question of taking over two sections of the main road, one near Victoria Bridge and the other on the Crown Range. The revenue was only a fraction of the oost of maintenance, and assistance was badly needed. The Prime Minister said that both matters were deserving of consideration, and he would discuss the position with the chairman of the Highways Board. TRIP TO PEMBROKE.

There were no further matters to bring bofore the Ministers in the Lake County, so after greeting a number of the residents

tho Ministers left at 9.30 for Pembroke, via the Crown Range. The sun shone with midsummer strength as the line of oars climbed up the long zig-zag road over the range, and when the summit was readied after a long, steady climb the cars had entered thick mist banks that hung over the tops on the very highest point of the range. A brief halt was made to admire the glorious view that was disclosed when a break in the swirling mist allowed the sunshine to peep through and glint on the snow-flecked peaks that stretched away into the distance. Once more the long journey down the other side of the range through the Cardrona Valley and round the base of the hills to beautiful Wanaka was commenced. Pembroke was reached at midday, but before visiting the township the Ministers paid a private visit of inspection to the irrigation works on the property of Mr P. R. Sargood at Wanaka Station. This irrigation plant is of the gravity system . and was privately constructed, but the Ministers were able to gain a comprehensive idea of the wonderfully beneficial effects of the water on the land. DEPUTATIONS AT COUNTY CENTRES.

The itinerary of the Ministerial party this afternoon embraced a particularly large area, and deputations were met "at all centres between Pembroke and Alexandra via Tarras, Cromwell, and Clyde. Luncheon was served at Pembroke, and members of the iparty rested while the Prime Minister attended to some private business. No reception was held and no deputations met the Ministers, although they were met and welcomed by a number of the residents. Pembroke was left at 2 o’clock in liot sunshine, and after crossing the ferry at Luggage Punt on the Clutha River the cars crossed the Hawea Flat, skirting the Hawea River. HAWEA’S WANTS. At the Hawea Schoolhouse a party of settlers waited on the Prime Minister. Mr A. P. Cotter, who headed the deputation, heartily congratulated Mr Coates on the position he had gained as leader of the country, and referred to the fact that it was the first time a Prime Minister had met the settlers at Hawea. He hoped Mr Coates would retain his position for many years. The matters that vitally concerned the settlers present were first the extension of the Central Otago railway line to Luggate, so that the district they were in would be tapped; secondly, a new jetty at the mouth of the Hawea River at a cost of f 200; and thirdly, that the district should have direct telephonic communication with Cromwell. At present the work on the railway extension had been suspended to allow the department to concentrate on Miller’s Flat, and the residents hoped that at the conclusion of the extension to Roxburgh work on the Hawea area would be recommenced. The new jetty was needed badly, as was a means of communication with Cromwell by telephone. Mr Coates thanked those present for their hearty welcome and the congratulations that they had extended him and the other Ministers present. PRIME MINISTER’S REPLY. “A very difficult problem in this district,” said Mr Coatee, “is the matter oi railway extension, as under no oirounistances can you justify this line from a point of view of railway finance. On the oth» .• hand there is no doubt that only by railway extension can the country be developed. It is possible that the line woulc Day in 10 or 15 years. The whole question of railway development is under v'ry. careful consideration, and at the present time the Public Works Department is conducting a re-survey to see if the present estimate of the cost of the line can be cut do.vn. As far as the telephone system is concerned I shall look into Che matter and let the member for the district (Mr J. Horn) know. I am sorry he is not with us to-day, but lie is absent at Stewart Island, and was unable to join us. “The jetty is really a matter to be gone into by the Tourist Department, but personlly I am of the opinion that the first thing to concentrate on is increased pro Auction. The Government will give every help to the districts from a tourist point of view, but does not intend to make a Queenstown of Hawea.”

TARRAS SETTLERS’ CLAIMS. The ministerial party then continued on to Tarras, where the claims of two settlers, Messrs J. M. Bell and J. R. Ollivier, were considered. They showed the Ministers their holdings on the river., flats, whi h were to be prospected under the Mining Act by the Clutha Junction Mining Company, which had pegged out claims on the two farms. The whole area was mining leasehold, but they had been on the property for four years, and the farms were most productive. “Of course while there are mining leases the companies may go where they like,” said Mr Coates, “but I shall take up the matter with the Minister of Mines.” EXPERIMENTAL PLOTS. From Tarras the party returned to th® Northburn Station, where the visitors were met by Mr D. Middleton. Tho Ministers alighted, and were conducted to the Government experiment! plots for regenerating the now rocky and barren grass Lands ol Central Otago. ’’’he plots are situated on the hillside, some distance from the road, and there Dr Cockayne, on behalf of 1.. Department of griculture fenced off .several areas three years ago, m. . them rabbit and stock proof, and planted them with a variety of grasses, includin’ fescue. Without anv form of .ordinary soil preparation the growth was found to be particularly satisfactory. Green, fertile areas existed in the barren spaces, and Mr Middleton informed the Ministers that in view of the experimental results he was trying out two blocks of 10CO acres each in th® same manner. ROARING MEG IRRIGATION SCHEME. After a short inspection of the district from the hills the party continued direct to Cromwell where the Ministers were welcomed by a large gathering of local residents and settlers of the district. Trio Prime Minister met a small private gathering of residents in the Council Chambers. Some indication of the policy of th® Government in regard to the Roaring Meg irrigation scheme wa* requested by a representative gathering of 20 settlers particularly interested in irrigation work at a public deputation that followed. Ihe Mayor (Mr D C. Jolly) extended a hearty welcome to the Ministers and congratulated Mr Coates on the high office he had attained. He was no stranger to the district and all present were particularly pleased that their Prime Minister was a man so well acquainted with the district in th® capicity of Minister of Public Works. Replying to the welcome, the Prime Minister said that the object of the tour was the promotion of the welfare of the peopl® in Central Otago, and it was the duty of the Ministers to get about the country* especially in part 9 that were offering th® greatest opportunities for development. H® was firmly of the belief that there wa s • wonderful future in Central Otago. Together with the other Ministers he would have liked to have accepted the hospitality that had been offered throughout the trip,; but time was the essence of the contract, and the partv was - endeavouring to cover as much ground as possible. The Hon. Mr M‘Leod added his thank* and said that the Prime Minister had proved himself in many ways, but in no wav more than by his belief in the co* ordination of the departments and the Min* isters. The Ministers of Lands and Agrfo culture had to be associated on tho tour* and the Prime Minister was there to saf how far they could go and what promised oould be made, as well as in his capacity, as Minister of Public Works.

Tho Hon. Mr Hawken also spoke. “Evert time I isit the district I think more cl it,” he said. “You have the climate anq tho sunshine, and we are going to givt you the water.”

In dealing with the matter of tho Roaring Meg irrigation scheme the Mayor said that the Ministers had been approached several times, but the settlers bad not received an/ information on the subject, and were becoming anxious to know their chances ol getting water, and what it was to Witt* regard to the Cromwell Oevelopmeni Cot-jJaiy the work waa very slow, and il seemed likely that it was retarding any action that might be taken by the Govern* ment or any other irrigation schema ini the district. The company could not givdi

the settlers the water they required, and although it was going on as fast a 9 the finance permitted the position could not be satisfactory. The settlers wished an assurance that they would get hydro assistance from the Meg. as it was (he only scheme that would help the district along. Mr J. R. Webb (a settler in the district, who is vitally interested in the Roaring Meg irrigation proposal) said that he had experimented in irrigation on his own, and the results had been wonderful. He was sure that the Ministers knew the position and any information in regard to costs in regard to irrigation iD Central Otago, would be very greatly appreciated. Mr J. Ritchie (chairman of the county) ■aid that it was all a question of what the. scheme would 6ost and what the 'settlers would have to pay an acre for the water.

‘T regret that we could not supply this information earlier,” said Mr Coates, •‘hut I do not propose to reveal the reason why this was not done. Since then surveys have been made to ascertain the cost per acre. On a basis of 3700 for full irrigation and 3700 for partial irrigation the cost has been worked out very high—at 26s per acre^and we are not confident that the settlers would pay that. Investigations are to be made to see if the cost can be brought down. The question is one of remodelling, and that means more surveys, and I suggest that officers of the Agricultural Department and the Public Works Department meet the settlers and talk over the position and the post. In the opinion of Mr J. F. Smith, who was the next speaker, settlers could not make a living at the cost that had been quoted. In such circumstances he would Be sorry to see a man go on to the land. It should not be dropped at that, said Mr Coates. This conference should be held and then some decision made. CROMWELL POST OFFICE.

The Mayor also introduced the question of the local post office which, he said, was in a very bad state. The building had been practically condemned and was not fit for the number of men who were working in it. he said. The council practically gave the section adjoining to the Government on Oie understanding that it was to be the site of a new post office, but nothing had been done. They had turned down an offer of £2OO and had taken £75 for that section.

Mr Coates said that the question woukl be considered in the programme for the coming year. The department would see what could be done. SUBDIVISION OF IRRIGABLE LANDS. Prior to the close of the meeting Mr Smith asked the Minister of Lands to give an opinion on the subdivision of irrigable lands. A man could not be asked to live au perhaps 150 acres, he said. He needed from 600 to 900 acres.

“I would like to say definitely that if Jhjs lend is worth 30s per acre 150 acres Is enough for one man,” said Mr M'Leod.

CLYDE IRRIGATION SCHEME. After leaving Cromwell the party continued to Clyde, where the Ministers were welcomed by the residents, headed bv Mr J. Ritcliie (chairman of the Vincent Countv Council) who had accompanied Mr Coates from Cromwell. At tfie meeting that followed Mr A. G Fryer (secretary to the Earnscleugh Water Board) asked the Prime Minister to take steps to allow the sandy point and the Blackmans irrigation schemes, at present in the hands of the Public Works Department, to stand on their own individual merits. The department proposed to deviate from the original scheme at Sandy Point and spend £6OOO in serving an old freehold of 237 acres. The cost was to be collected over the whole area, and besides it being a mistake spending so much money on such a small acreage it was not fair to place developed and poor lands on the same footing. The speaker was supported by Mr U. Gillies (a settler in the district). Mr J. R. Marks (Public Works Engineer in charge of irrigation) said he did not see where the present policy could be altered. It had been carefully considered by all the departmental experts, who were satisfied that it was in the best interests of the district as a whole. “Let us throw it all in the hat and readjust it with equal justice to , all,” said Mr Coates. “All I am going to say is that we have so much money in this that we are going to have it back, and we are not going to have any humbug either. Put it all in a common pool and we will satisfy everybody’s irrigation wants—soldier settlers and everybody. Irrigation js in its infancy in New Zealand, and I hope all who are present have wme 9ense of fair play, and will give the officers of the department an opportunity to carry out the policy it has outlined.” The Hon. Mr M‘Leod added that farmers had to learn not how to use but how to conserve water. In Australia a lot of land had been wasted by the ruthloss use of water that should have been of great benefit. AT ALEXANDRA. “There are certainly great difficulties to be overcome,” said the Hon. Mr Hawken, “and all the departments will make it their duty to go into every point in irrigation work os closely a 9 possible.” Votes of thanks to the visiting Ministers closed the meeting, and the party left for Alexandra;, where the night was spent. Votes of thanks to the visiting Ministers closed the meeting, and the party left for Alexandra, where the night was spent Alexandra was reached at 7.30 p.m., and after dinner had been served the Ministers were made welcome to the town by a gathering of several hundred residents In the Town Hall, presided over by the Mayor (Mr W. Black). The coming of the party was heralded by the Alexandra Band. The Mayor welcomed the Miniatert, and said the occasion was a unique one, as never before had Alexandra been visited by the Prime Minister as well as two other Ministers of the Crown. Mr Coates was looked on as a friend to the district, and all joined with

the speaker in congratulating him on attaining his high position. Another matter for congratulation was that Mr Coates was such a strong supporter of the constitution of the Empire. The Hon. Mr M'Leo-j and the Hon. Mr Hawken were also to be very heartily welcomed, and it was hoped that their future visits would be frequent. At one time the most important Minister to the district was he who held the portfolio of Mines, but at the present day the Ministers who ivere present that evening were those to whom the people of Alexandra looked most. Mr Coates was to be specially thanked for the interest he had taken as Minister of Public Works in the irrigation work of Central Otago, and backed by splendid officers he had done great and important work. At the instigation of the Mayor three cheers were given for the visitors.

In reply, Mr Coates apologised for the absence of the member for the district (Mr J. Horn), and thanked all present for the hearty welcome that had been given his colleagues and himself. He sincerely trusted the Government would give equal opportunities to all citizens, and while it was necessary that all should take a share in helping to increase production, they had to ije given all the assistance and facilities that the Government was capable of giving. Irrigation offered by far the greatest opportunity for closer settlement that was to be had in New Zealand. At the present time there were difficulties, but difficulties were made to be overcome, and the Public Works Department was B&cked by officers with special experience. Many serious economic wastes could be avoided by the employing of expert men, and the coordination of the Public Works, Lands, and Agricultural Departments. The Government was most anxious to make a success of development by irrigation, and the cooperation of the people was wanted, for it was a hard row to hoe and there was a lot to learn. It was only necessary to show that the settlers could make a living f*wn irrigated lands for success to be assured in the long run. “Irrigation will be a success in Central Otago, and we are hoping to profit from the mistakes that other countries have made,” said the Hon. Mr M‘Leod in the course of his reply. “I dare say up to a dozen farmers this evening will know all about irrigation, but as time goes on they will find how little they know. The country has a lot to learn, but the Government, if helped by the people, will make a success of the venture. “So far as agriculture is concerned, I am interested in tne whole of the Dominion,” said the Hon. Mr Hawken in his reply, “and it will be my pleasure and duty to help the people on the land.. No district has a creator capacity for improvement over a snort period than Central Otago.” FRUIT GROWERS’ DEPUTATION. The function was concluded by hearty applause for the visiting Ministers and after musical items and a verse of .the National Anthem the meeting dispersed and the Ministers received district deputations.

The lighting of the railway yard at the Alexandra station owing to circumstances necessitating the loading of fruit in the dark and up to 11 o’clock at night was urged on behalf of a representative gathering of fruitgrowers by Mr C. Weaver, of the Fruitgrowers’ Association. “I am informed by the department that there are plenty of lights. Who atn I to believe, the settlers or the department’s officers?” asked the Prime Minister “Lighting is included in this year’s programme, hut that does not get over the immediate difficulty. Sonic temporary arrangement will be made. THE RABBIT PEST. One of the principal pests in Central Otago was the rabbit, said Mr W. A. Bodkin, on behalf of the Manuhenkia Rabbit Board, in a conference with Mr Hawken and Mr M'Leod. He added that the prope9sional rabbiter hail also to be contended with as he was practically a rabbit farmer. Realising that poisoning was the only method of eradicating the pest the toard was formed and systematic poisoning was organised, but unless the cleared blocks could be kept clear the work would go for nothing. If the Act were amended to allow ■ the board to proceed with the erection of rabbit-proof fencing the work could be immediately commenced as £IOOO was in hand It was necessary to isolate and keep the land clear. Facility to borrow money was also required and the hoard was prepared to submit the proposals to the ratepayers and take a loan poll. “Is there not a danger that you will have to take a poll every ime you raise a loan and have the loans upset when new areas have to be tackled?” asked Mr M’Leod, The speaker replied that it was necessary to get to work on the land. In‘the opinion of the board the business could be made a paying proposition to the ratepayer. Mr Hawken said it might be more satisfactory if an estimate were made. The matter was really one of cost, and he could see that it culd be a tremendous thing for the country generally. “We shall go into it carefully,” said Mr Hawken “for the time is apparently favourable, and the department will do all that it can f o help.” The Ministers also privately discussed the progress of the irrigation work in the district with visiting ALEXANDRA TO NASEBY. VISITORS KEENLY IMPRESSED. NASEBY, March 3. Ideal weather favoured the Ministerial tour to-day, .and the Prime Mi ster (Mr Coates, the Hon. A. D. M’Leod, and the Hon. O. J. Hawken, with Mr J. Etchener, M.P. for Waitaki, who joined the party on Tuesday evening, visited all the centres .and places of interest from the point of view of irrigaion between Alexandra am. Naseby. The party left Alexandra at 8.30 a.m., and drove to the Galloway Flats, where irrigation work of flooding from fi'’ laterals was inspected. On the property of Mr W. W. Pullman several fields with an excellent growth of lucerne and other grasses were visited, and Mr Pullman informed the Ministers that the areas required to be thoroughly soaked once a fortnight. Complimentary remarks were passed on the standard of the results achieved.

On the slopes of the foothills, a short distance from the Galloway Station, is the experimental area of the Agricultural Department, which is devoted to the official testing of the effect of irrigation on the lands of the district. It has been in operation for seven years, and it is the object of the department to experiment in the different classes of grass crops tha ; can be grown, and endeavour to raise a fir3t-clnss dairy herd from the material on the spot. This area was also visited by the Ministers in company with Dr O. J. Reakes (director-general of agriculture).. and Mr R. B. Tennant (fields superviser), who referred to the fact that the area had previously been a particularly barren and un producing one, and the results, as could be seen, were highly satisfactory. It was the intention of the department to place the farm on a payable basis.

While there, Mr Coates was approached by Messrs R. Tohill and L. Ryan (president and secretary of the Farmers’ Union branch in the district), who applied for an extension of the water supply to the district farms. If a good supply could be got immediately, they said, the land could be got in good order, and it would take less water to do them in the future.

Mr J. R. Marks (public works engineer in charge of irrigation) said that there was a certain amount of spare water in the dam which could be given at the reduced price of 2s per head over periods of 24 hours in special cases. “In our opinion the Galloway scheme is the nursery of New’ Zealand irrigation work,” said Mr Ryan, “and the experimental plots have shown us what a sufficiency of water on the other lands will do.” The Prime Minister decided that the matter would be left in the hands of Mr Marks to deal with. It was necessary to have something done as soon as possible. EXPERIMENTAL AREAS. After leaving the experimental areas, the party inspected the results of irrigation work on the property of Mr J. H. Keddell, a few miles on towards Chatto Creek, and then proceeded to the Manuherikia Valley, where at the present time the Public Works Department proposes to organise the biggest irrigation scheme that will have been attempted in the Dominion. The cars climbed over the saddle, and stopped on Tiger Hill at 11 a.m., and the Ministerial party alighted and climbed a short distance to the highest vantage point. The valley stretches northeast to the junction of the two ranges that skirt its borders. “There are 100,000 acres, 64,000 of which can be irrigated,” said Mr Marks, explaining the position to the party, and pointing to the vast extent of dry, waterless country that lay ahead. “ The cost of irrigating the area that would be benefited by water,” added Mr Marks, would be £900,000, of which a quarter of a million would be spent in a dam in the Upper Manuherikia River at the far end of the valley. The race would he brought back from the dam along under the foothills, and they coi.ld irrigate all the suitable country as far

back as Clyde. Any amount of water for the use of the country could be stored in the dam, which would be 180 ft in height, ar.d the cost of the water to farmers was reckoned at from 15s to Ida per acre. It would be the biggest thing that the department had tackled in the country.

Mr Coates said the question was, Did the demonstrations of what the country could do when irrigated warrant the expenditure of public moneys? Various factors were yet to be considered, including the extent of absorption of the land in the valley when the water was cmr ducted through. This concluded the discussion of tha prooosal, and the party left for Otureliua, which was reached at 12.15. Here Mr J. Nicholson (secretary of the Settlers* Association) headed a party oc settlors, who welcomed 'he Ministeis and appeale . lor a telephone extension in the district over a radius of 20 miles. Subscribers had been found, and the residents were waiting for assistance from the department. Mr Coates replied that very litlie money was being spent on extensions by the department, but the matter was one which would he dealt with. He promised to get in touch with the department. THE HAWKDFX SCHEME Mr Nicholson also asked the Prime Minister when the settlers could expect to get water under the Hawkden irrigation scheme, which was to deal with 10/>OO acres from Oturehua down to Naseby. This had been proposed four years ago, and the need for water was very great. If the Public Works Department intended to continue with the scheme shortly the settlers could arrange their crops in anticipation of the arrival of the irrigation. Mr Marks said that the scheme was to use the Mount Ida Mining races for irrigation purposes. The proposals were to be gone ahead with, but there had been unavoidable delays iu preparing the contracts and making the final investigations. It ould be perhaps two years before the scheme was completed, but the works had been started and some water might be got next season. THE MINISTERS WELCOMED.

Mr J. Bitchener, M.P., heartily welcomed the Ministers to the district on behalf of the settlers who were present. Mr Coates had been a great friend to Central Otago, lie said, and had done all ho could possibly do to advance irrigation work, in which he was particularly interested. It was not his fault if there were any delays in the arrival of the water to tli'* various districts. The Prime Minister replied chat he was very anxious that the scheme should be a success. It was desirable to tackle the huge irrigable areas in Central Otago. In returning thanks, Mr M’Leod said that his duties had been extremely light during the trip, and it was refreshing to pass through such a large area and find so little for complaint to the Lands Department. As far as the Hawkden scheme was concerned there had been a great many mistakes made in the pass owing to Jack of complete investigation, and it was better to allow a little time to elapse la .p! er make any unsuitable decisions. Ihe Hon. Mr Hawken said it was expected that irrigation would multiply the productivity of the land many times in Central Otago and that was what his department wanted. ,His business was to increase production and the series of the Agriculture Department were at the disposal of the farmers in assisting them to utilise the water when it arrived. MANUHERIKIA SCHEME.

The party then continued on to Wedderburn where lunch was served at 1 o'clock, and after a brief rest a start was made for the Ripper end of the long Manuherikia Valley where the site of the proposed dam for the big irrigation scheme hag been chosen. The cars crossed the valley and entering the tussock lands traversed two and a-haif miles of unformed road to the junction of the ranges. There the Ministers left the cars, and in company with the departmental officers walked the remaining two miles to the site of the dam which wat inspected. The locality is one where the Manuherikia Kiver passes through a narrow gorge beliiud which ie a wide basin which readily offers itself for the construction of a large reservoir In reply to questions. Mr Marks stated that the dam would enable an area of three and a-half miles by three-quarters of a mile to be inundated for a reservoir which would hold 2,800.000,000 cubic feet of water. The visit occupied an hour and the party returned io the cars in hot sunshine, afterwards proceeding to the main road where a deputation of settlers in the district waited on the Prime Minister to discuss the proposed scheme and strongly urge the Government to giv* it favourable consideration.

“I hope you have been impressed with the scheme ns it has been outlined to you,” said Mr J. Wilson in introducing the deputation. “We must thank you for vour great interest in the district, the welfare of which we are all sure you have at heart.”

Mr G. T. Alexander, on behalf of those residents who hod met the Ministers and as a member of the Farmers’ Union, again said they were anxious to advocate the start of the Upper Manuherikia scheme, which they were satisfied would be a great success owing to the great area of ideal country suitably located below the site oi the dam. The proposal was a reasonable ono and seemed easy to carry into operation. which was more than could be 6aid of many of the requests brought forward the Ministers’ tour, and was more likely to succeed than many of the irrigation schemes undertaken bv the Government through the Public Works Department.

On behalf of the 20 rsturnod soldier settlers in the district, Mr T Read added his appeal and said that the aggregate land occupied by them was 6000 acres. > Ho asked that the position be fully considered and that the matter receive the immediate attention of the Government.

In reply, Mr Coatee detailed the figure* that, the Public Works Department’s engineers had given in connection with the scheme ancl mentioned the fact that the probable cost would be 15s or 16s. The only matter fo: decision was whether the time hod arrived when the Government could with safety undertake me firs* big scheme in the Central. When the water was delivered, were the settlers in the position to use it profitably? They must nave

Boma definite and satisfactory proposition before they could expect the people of New Zealand to accept the expenditure of such a great amount of public money, and the cooctern must at least return the, interest and sinking fund on the outlay. Mr Wilson suggested that the cost per acre was estimated too high. If it were 12s it would be more suitable to the residents.

Mr Coates: Then it would not be a business proposition, and I will not entertain a loan under those conditions for you or anyone else.—(Applause.) 'nie Prime Minister concluded by saying that the enthusiasm of the residents and their decision that the water must arrive was a decided inducement to the Government to go ahead with the work. Personally, he wrs convinced that it would bo started seme time. In reply to a question the Hon. Mr M‘Leol, as Minister of Lands, said that his instrnc tions to the boards were that there would be no renewals of leases on Crown lands where there was a reasonable chance of irrigation, and there was little for the settlers in the irrigable districts to fear in that direction. WAIPIATA SANATORIUM. As the delay had been considerable and unexpected by the parry, it became impos Bible to aihere to the original time table, and the Ministers proceeded direct to the Waipiahi Sanatorium, which was reached at 6.80 p.m. A visit of inspection was made in company with Mr R. Scott, a member of the committee, and the medical officer, Dr H. Kidd. There are at present 00 patient* in the Sanatorium, many of whom were greeted by the Prime Minister. All departments of the Sanatorium were examined, and prior to the departure of the Ministers Mr Scott thanked Mr Coates for the active Interest he had taken in the institution. AT NASEBY. The Ministers then proceeded to Naseby, yrhqre the party spent the night. A call was made at Ranfurly, but no business was done, and Naseby was reached at 7.80 After dinner and a short rest the Ministers met a large and representative gathering of settlers and townsmen in the Naseby Council Chambers. Mr W. Strong (member of the Naseby Council) and Mr T. Ramfey, on behalf of the Maniototo County, welcomed the Ministers, and thanked them for their visit to Naseby. The eulogistic remarks of the speakers were endorsed by Messrs E. I). Morgan and R. Scott. "The better roads wo make in Central Otago the less will be the profit for the railway a,” said Mr Scott, “but good roads aro badly needed by the settlers.” Tbe Prime Minister, in ropty, stated that his colleague* were the right men in the right place. Ho was not 9ure that a lot of talk was wanted to-day. The Government had to deliver the goods, and oe the lata Mr Massey loft a clear indication of the work to bo carried on by New Zealand rt was the duty of the present Government to pick up the threads where they were dropped. As Minister of Public Works, he had visited the district before and at that time Mr Massey had Riven him every opportunity to help in the development of the country. In regard to the reading the Government was not allowing aav political influence to interfere with tho co-operation of each departme . The policy of the Government was to do the moat important things first, and as the primary products were of the utmost importance it was necessary that the very beat facilities for transport should bo given to the ba-.kblock settlers. The moneys, however, were allocated on definite scheme, and in it political considerations irrek no i :?rt. County councils played an important part as the Governmen' wished to acbie.e ctocentralisation, and it was much easier for the detailed work to be done by the men on the spot. Mr Contes concluded by thanking all present for the welcome tendered to him. Tho day had been a pleasant one, and the out* lc ’. throughout the district was most enoouraginv. . TT The Hon. Mr MLcod and the II m. Mr Hawk4n also replied to the welcome. LAMB MORTALITY.

The first deputation of the evening was formed by the Maniototo Farmois’ Union, headed by Mr 8. C. Greer, who appealed to the lion. Mr Hawken for some solu tion of the lamb mortality problem. Settlers were not confident in regard to the treatment advocated by the Agriculture Department, and in many capes hesitated to go to the expense of trying the method. He appealed for further investigation by the department, as the farmers thought H possible that a poisonous weed in the dlftrict was responsible. Dr C. J. Reakes did not agree, but the speaker would suggest that officers be sent to tho distrust to conduct a thorough post-mortem examination. Mr T. Dowling supported the request, tad said that at present a cast was

known where the death late was 40 in 200. The area was spreading to tho tussock country, and the deaths occurred in all classes of lambs.

Mr C. Inder gave it as his opinion that the deaths were due to a weed in a certain stage of development, a fact that would explain the sudden starting and stopping of the mortality. If the department decided to investigate, the union would advise when the mortality commenced. Mr Hawken said that the matter waa one which would be investigated by the department, but he had had what appeared to be a similar experience in the North Island due to over-feeding and over-fat lambs. Howevar, the mortality in tho Naseby district seemed to be abnormal, and a good offices? would be sent to investigate. AFFORESTATION. Afforestation was the subject of the request made by the Naseby Welfare League, headed by Mr R. F. Indsr, who appealed for the continuation of tree planting. The original nursery was at Kanfurly and owing to its location and the nature of the country the trees did r.ot show much growth However, tho land Hie settlers wished to be planted in the Spec Gully was very suitable and the conditions were better than in other parts. He hoped that the matter would be investigated and that the Agricultural Department would reconsider its decision to abandon the tree planting proposal in the district.

“We have a treeless country exposed to high winds, and we honestly think that no part of New Zealand could produce trees more cheaply than here,” said Mr C. Inder. “We are glad,” he continued, “that you will visit the nursery in the' morning and see for yourself. I feel sure that you will be favourably impressed and will discontinue the proposal to close down the nursery.”

Mr R. Soott also supported the request. “Throughout the districts near here over which we have travelled to-dav there are far too few trees,” said Mr Hawken. Tho fanners do not seem to have helped themselves even a* far as their owe requirements are concerned. We shall meet at the nursery in the morning and discuss the matter. EROSION OF RIVER LAND. Mr W. M. Mathewson appealed for the assistance of the Government in preventing erosion of riverland by the water of the Kyeburn River. This waß being caused by dredging further up the river. Mr M‘Leod said that as Minister of Lands h© could not spend money on protective work, except in the case of drown lands, where the cost would have to be loaded on the land itself. Otherwise the matter would have to be dealt with by the Public Works Department. “We shall wait for a report from Mr Marks," said the Prime Minister. TO-DAY’S PROGRAMME. This concluded the public deputations, and Mr J. Bitchener, M.P. for the district, proposed a hearty vote of thanks which was carried by acclamation. To-morrow the party will leave Naseby at 8 a.m., and, after a visit to the Naseby afforestation area, will journey to North Otago, via Shag Valley. Palmerston and Oamaru will be visited, and in the afternoon the Ministers will visit Ngapara and Kurow. reaching Waimate in the ovening. At Palmerston Mr Hawken will join the south express on a visit of inspection to Wallace and thereabouts. The Prime Minister will proceed to Christchurch on Friday afternoon. Mr M’Lcod will accompany the Prime Minister to-morrow as far as Oamaru, where he will join the second express for Christ church. Leaving Christchurch on Friday morning, the Minister will proceed, in company with Mr G. W. Forbes. M.P., to Haniner Springs to look into the question of extending the township area. Kaikoura will be reached the same evening, and on the following morning the Minister will be accompanied by Mr VV. J. Girling, M.P., and the Commissioner of Crown Lands, Blenheim, on an inspection of the Clarence Valley, involving a three days’ ride. The Minister proposes to join the Pieton boat on Tuesday for Wellington. NASEBY TO WAIMATE. WAIMATE, March 4. The Ministerial tour of the Central Otago district was concluded to-day, when the party continued from Naseby via Shag Valley to Palmerston. Oamaru and Waimate, which was reached in the evening. SPEC VALLEY AFFORESTATION. A start was made from Nasobv at halfpest 8 in the morning, and the Prime Minister, the Hon. A. D. M‘Leod, (Minister of Lands), and the Hon. O. J. Hawken (Minister of Agriculture), together with the

remaining. members of the party, motored to the Naseby afforestation area in company with the members of the previous evening’s deputation. There the nursery and* plantations were examined. Mr T. 0. Screen, conservator of tho plantations, outlined the work and said that there were 3000 acres m the plantation containing a variety of pines and 200 acres of larch Tho growth bad been satisfactory and these areas were planted owing to tho suitable nature of tho ground. Before leaving the area the Hon Mr Hawken, a 3 Commissioner of State Forests, said: “Let the residents of tho district know the intention of th© department in regard to the Spec Valley area.” VISIT TO SHAG VALLEY.

The cars then left for Shag Valley station, making good time on tho excellent roads, arul passing out oliho Central Otago district shortly after naff-past 10. The. long winding vatUy wr,s entered and at II o'clock the Ministers reached the station, where they were entertained at morning tea by Mr A. D. Bell. AT PALMERSTON.

Continuing, tho party motored on to Palmerston, journeying over the ridges, whore a paep cf the wide expanse of country over tho Upper Taieri Plain was obtained, and througn Dunback. At Palmerston the Hon. Mr Hawken, with his secretary. Mr L. E. Johnson, hoarded the south express for Invercargill, and on reaching Oamaru at 1.15 p.m., the Hon. Mr M‘Lood and his secretary, Mr A. W. Mulligan, left the Dartv to -join the north bound express. Tho Prime Minister and the remaining members of the party continued on to Peebles, where they were the guests of Mr VV. Gardiner at luncheon. JOURNEY THROUGH WAITAKI. At. half past 3 the Prime Minister left for Kurow, the lateness of the hour necessitating the trip to Ngapara being abandoned. REQUESTS AT DUNTROON. At 4 o’clock Duutroon was reached, and there a small party of residents, headed by Mr M. Francis, met Mr Coates. Mr Francis asked that something be done to prevent the Marewhenua River over flowing and encroaching on the land near Dun troou. This it tliroatenod to do, and in such » case hundreds of acres would be flooded. Mr .7 Bitchener M.P. for Woitaki, who accompanied the party., added that the people were also dissatisfied in regard to ‘he use of the Duntroon Hall by the Defence Department. as three-quarters of the cost of the hall had been paid by them. The Prime Minister, said that both matters would be looked into. HALT AT KUROW. The next halt woe at Kurow, where the Hon. Mr Coates was met by a representative gathering of residents. Mr A. H'' Chapman appealed for an expenditure approximating £2O on a small sheep yard to relieve the crowding that occurred at Straehan’s Siding, and Mr J. Barclay requested that the Post and Telegraph Department should install another telephone line from Kurow to Oamaru. At the present time the demands made on the single line meant that subscribers had to wait as long as one and a-half hours to get through. The Prime Minister said that both matters would be considered. WAIMATE DEPUTATIONS. Kurow waa left at 5.30 p.m. and the 40 mile run to Waimate was commenced. The first serious breakdown of the tour occurred 15 miles from Waimate, when one of the cars was delayed one and a-half hours, but the Prime Minister reached Waimate on time and wa s entertained by the members of the Waimate Countv Council. The principal speakers were the chairman of the Country Council (Mr H. B. S. Johnstone) and the Mayor (Mr G Dash), who heartilv welcomed Mr Coates on his first visit to the district as Prime Minister. After the function the party adjourned to the Council Chambers, where the local deputations were received. On behalf of *he Wnimata District High School Board Mr S. I. Fitch appealed for a separate high school for the district as the present dis trict school was over-crowded, and would - have to be increased. Tho board held £3600 and possessed an income of £358 per vear. and there was a site that could he built

The Prime Minister said that the position would he referred to the Minister Fine* tion.

On behalf of the Waimate Borough Council Mr G Dash asked that legislation be introduced enabling the proceeds on the sale of certain borough reserves to be usod in the construction of houses on other reserves.

Mr Coates was symoathetio and he would consult the Minister of Injernal Affairs and see if it were possible to Insert a suitable clause without upsetting tho legislation.