A SUNSHADE FOR THE PORT HILLS.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 17183, 29 October 1923, Page 6

A SUNSHADE FOR THE PORT HILLS.

Professor Wall’s suggestion for the planting of trees on the Port Hilts has been revived at an opportune time, when the advent of summer closes the unsheltered hill roads to most pedestrians. It is a well known fact, which the tramway returns to the hills terminus hear out, that as soon as the hot weather conies round the hill-walkers fall off. This would not be so if there were occasional shelter belts of broad leafy trees or even evergreens where walking parties could rest and refresh themselves. Professor Wallis idea, however, is to plant 10,000 acres in trees, providing an entirely new background for the city, and converting more or less dry sheep runs into forest reserves. The idea sounds attractive, and although the initial expense might be heavy, the project would probably prove economically sound. The Forestry League might very well sound the City Council and the owners concerned in the matter, for the idea ought not to be lightly dismissed. Meanwhile, however, a good deal could be done with verylittle expense in planting shelter trees for walking parties. Once on a time, when Arbor Day was something more than a mere name, a number of trees were planted at Cashmere, but with what success we do not know. This plan might be extended for the benefit of the growing number of citizens who take their recreation in the invigorating atmosphere of the hill tracks.