A LIGHT RAILWAY TO HANMER SANATORIUM.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 5871, 13 May 1897, Page 2

A LIGHT RAILWAY TO HANMER SANATORIUM.

Commenting upon the pressing need of railway communication in very many districts, and expressing approval of light railways to supply these wants, the Dunedin Star says : — We will take one instance among many which immediately suggest themselves. The Hannier Springs in the Nelson district, it is well-known, attract an increasing number of visitors, for the sake of the thermal waters and for recreation. The curative properties of these waters in certain classes of disease prevalent in New Zealand are every year becoming better known and appreciated. Unfortunately, however, under existing circumstances, Hanmer is tabooed practically, except to persons of some means, owing to the expense of getting there ; whilst the inconvenience, and, indeed, great discomfort of the latter part of the journey debar many would-be patients. Culverden is the extreme northern point reached by the great south railway line, !and from this to the present terminus at Hanmer the traveller has to take coach. A further drawback in the case of invalids is the want of accommodation close to the Springs, but this want is now being removed. Alight railway between CuTverden and Hanmer could be constructed at a very moderate expenditure, and we are convinced that the effect would at once be to largely augment the number of visitors, giving good prospects of recuperation to many sufferers who at present are unable to undertake the fatigue and expense of the trip. As a matter of course, the considerably increased demand would result in fitting accommodation — apart from the sanatorium in course of constructionbeing provided close to the baths, and the place in every respect would be rendered more attractive.