ACCOMMODATION IN N.Z. HOTELS

Southland Times, Issue 23839, 9 June 1939, Page 7

ACCOMMODATION IN N.Z. HOTELS

COMPLAINTS BY OVERSEAS VISITORS? Licensing legislation in New Zealand was a subject which was brought before the Southland Progress. League during the year, it being pointed out that if the Dominion was to cater properly for the tourist traffic, serious thought should be given to the matter of improving the existing accommodation at hotels throughout the country, states the league’s annual report. The matter of licensing of hotels was quite definitely a controversial subject, and it was emphasized that that aspect of the matter did not enter into the league’s thoughts on the subject. The point was that complaints were continually being heard from overseas people alleging inadequacy in the accommodation available at some hotels. Chambers of Commerce and other interested bodies throughout the Dominion were inquired from on the question, and the replies received generally supported the view that some improvements were required in the existing conditions. The matter of the present licensing legislation was as a result, incidental to the discussions which took place. One point brought forward was that steps should be taken to allow for a redistribution of hotel licences and a grant of licences at points where required by tourists and travellers. Finally, the whole matter was referred to the Prime Minister (the Rt. Hon. M. J. Savage) who promised the Government’s consideration at the earliest opportunity, and further advice was now awaited.