TOURIST AND HEALTH RESORTS REPORT. (23rd August, 1904.) BY THE MINISTER OF TOURIST AND HEALTH RESORTS, HON. SIR J.G. WARD, K.C.M.G.

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1904 Session I, H-02

H.— 2

1904. NEW ZEALAND.

TOURIST AND HEALTH RESORTS REPORT. (23rd August, 1904.) BY THE MINISTER OF TOURIST AND HEALTH RESORTS, HON. SIR J. G. WARD, K.C.M.G.

Presented to both Houses of the General Assembly by Command of His Excellency.

Department of Tourist and Health Resorts, My Lord,— Wellington, 16th August, 1904. I have the honour to submit to Your Excellency the report of the Department of Tourist and Health Resorts for the year ending the 3lst March, 1904. I have the honour to be, Your Lordship's most obedient servant, J. G. Ward, Minister of Tourist and Health Resorts. His Excellency the Governor of New Zealand.

The year under review shows a considerable increase in the tourist traffic. To the colony generally, and to each particular pleasure or health resort, the number of visitors has greatly exceeded that of any previous year. In the height of the season the hotels and accommodationhouses at every resort were taxed to their utmost capacities, and I regret to have to report that in some cases the accommodation provided signally failed to meet requirements. This has been particularly noticeable on some of the long coaching-routes. In a number of cases the proprietors are adding materially to their premises, but the improvements are proceeding all too slowly to meet the rapidly increasing volume of traffic. On the whole, lam pleased to state that hotel accommodation and catering throughout the colony have been well maintained, and, considering the volume of traffic, the complaints received from visitors have been few indeed. The greatest increase of visitors recorded is to Rotorua, to which place the railway passengers for the year numbered 16,956, as against 10,891 for the previous year. The popularity of this resort grows very rapidly. Notwithstanding the fact that the results have been so satisfactory, I am of opinion that much better would have eventuated had it not been for the unfortunate small-pox scare at Christchurch in February last. It is safe to say that hundreds of visitors were lost to the colony on that account, more especially from Australia. An attempt has this year been made to obtain data on which to base an estimate of the value of the oversea tourist traffic to the colony. The Department has recorded the names of 5,233 visitors, coming from the following countries : — Australia ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 2,726 United Kingdom ... ... ... ... ... ... 1,795 United States and Canada ... ... ... ... ... 417 European Continent ... ... ... ... ... ... 102 Africa ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 64 India ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 61 Other countries ... ... ... ... ... .. ... 68 Total ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 5,233 These figures cannot be regarded as complete, as many persons visit the colony who do not come into direct contact with the Department. It is therefore certain that the total number of visitors has not been recorded. However, taking these figures as a basis, and estimating the expenditure I—H. 2,

H.—2

2

of each person at £50, a low estimate, the value of the tourist traffic to the colony is shown to be considerably over a quarter of a million sterling per annum. This, I think, will be regarded as a very satisfactory result for the Government outlay in encouraging the traffic. To the sum above mentioned must be added the earnings of the shipping companies, in which large interests are held in the colony. These earnings must be very considerable. In addition to the direct receipts of this Department, which for the past year amounted to £15,344 Bs. lid., an increase of £6,943 7s. 3d. over the previous year, it is estimated that other revenue received from the tourist traffic by the Government through railways, post and telegraph, and Customs cannot be under £60,000 per annum. It is also estimated that the traffic now provides employment (Government and private) throughout the colony for at least 2,500 persons. The total arrivals in the colony for the year ending the 31st December, 1903, were 30,883, as compared with 30,293 for the previous year. The departures were 19,608, as against 22,301 for 1902. The excess of arrivals over departures in 1903 was 11,275, the greatest for many years past. The time is approaching when bureaux for the colony should be established in Sydney and Melbourne. I feel convinced that with energetic and well-informed officers at these centres much could be done to promote settlement and increase the number of visitors to the colony. The value of such increased traffic should, even in its initial* stages, greatly exceed the cost of the upkeep of these inquiry agencies. Later, the question of further extending the influence of the Department by establishing bureaux in some of the greater cities on popular routes of travel, together with a more central and accessible office in London, should receive earnest consideration. The establishment of such agencies would bring New Zealand into touch with the bulk of the travelling English-speaking people, and also open up fields from which many desirable settlers might be drawn. The srreat influx of settlers and visitors to Canada for some time past is an object-lesson of what can be done by the extensive advertising and efficient agencies in the great English-speaking centres. The reduction of the postage on newspapers, which enables the weekly illustrated journals to be sent to the United Kingdom, India, and the colonies at Id., is an innovation which should greatly assist in bringing the attractions and advantages of New Zealand under notice. I feel sure the colony will indirectly be compensated many times over for any temporary loss of postal revenue in consequence of this reduction. This small postal-rate should induce our colonists to despatch many thousands of the excellent illustrated Christmas numbers of weekly papers now issued in the colony, and which are undoubtedly ver3 r fine advertising media. The Department still maintains an extensive and increasing correspondence with persons abroad on matters relating to New Zealand as a tourist resort, a land of sport, and a place for settlement. In all cases the fullest information was carefully compiled and furnished. The number of correspondents in New Zealand desiring information as to travel, &c, has also increased, the people of the colony recognising the Department as a useful agency for obtaining desired information. The Head Office received and despatched during the year 21,211 letters, an increase of 2,411 over the previous year. The work in other branches shows a corresponding increase. Mr. T. E. Donne, the Superintendent of the Department, left New Zealand for St. Louis vid San Francisco on the Bth April last to represent the colony at the Exposition, and arrived there just prior to the opening-date of the Great Fair. In his absence Mr. C. R. C. Robieson has control of the Department. I desire to record the admirable manner in which the responsible officers of the staff have carried out their duties, and the loyal assistance given under all circumstances.

H.—'2

APPENDICES.

APPENDIX I. Third annual report of the superintendent of tourist and health RESORTS. Slß>— Department of Tourist and Health Resorts, Wellington, 30th June, 1904. I have the honour to submit herewith the departmental report for the year ending 31st March, 1904. C. R. C. Robieson, Acting-Superintendent. The Hon. Sir J. G. Ward, K.C.M.G., Minister of Tourist and Health Resorts.

The receipts for the year show a very subsantial increase in all branches. A comparative return is appended hereto, giving the figures each year since the Department was created. The remarkable increase recorded must be regarded as convincing evidence of the effective work of the Department in popularising the health and scenic resorts which form such a valuable asset to the colony. The receipts for the year amounted to £15,344 Bs. lid., compared with £8,401 Is. Bd. for the previous year, an increase of £6,943 7s. 3d.

3

1900-1. 1901-2. I 1902-3. 1903-4. Increase on Prtvious Year. Te Aroha— £ s. d. Bath fees and towel-hire .. Out-patients'fees Tennis-players, library fees, <fee. .. I £ s. d. £ s. d. 390 12 10 16 5 6 27 4 0 £ s. d. 1,105 0 0 325 1 O 60 18 0 £ s. d. 440 2 4 1,490 19 0 1,050 16 8 ! ~ ~ Botnrua — Sanatorium patients' fees .. .. 068 16 6 Out-patients'fees .. .. .. 419 10 0 S>ili of bath-tickets, and towel-hire .. ' 1,027 18 5 Water fres .. .. .. ... 77 10 0 Electric-light charges Tennis-; layers, &o. .. .. Round irip .. .. • • •. i "Tea-house" Sale of mineral waters .. Bale of Guides, pamphlets, &o. Guiding-fees Miscellaneous receipts 813 13 6 480 7 6 1,522 0 i 144 5 0 36 12 8 717 3 8 589 10 0 1,874 5 7 132 12 6 544 19 0 47 7 0 565 5 0 144 19 11 929 4 1 817 17 0 2,415 "2 10 236 0 0 1,032 19 10 56 18 9 1,794 17 6 295 14 3 48 17 10 16 18 9 22 17 0 72 18 6 2,193 14 11 Waimanqu Accommodation - houte (6 \ months) — Accommodation fees, &o. Sale of Guides, photos, &c. 2,996 19 0 4,616 2 3 7,740 6 4 3,121 4 1 926 6 6 3 0 0 929 6 6 929 6 6 Lake Bouse, Waiharemoana — Accommodation fees, &o. Oil-launch and boat reoeipts .. ! |_ 66 12 6 379 8 11 61 13 6 66 12 6 441 2 5 374 9 11 Hanmer Eot Springs — Accommodation fees .. .. 1,139 19 10 Sale of bath-tickets, and towel-hire .. 487 6 10 Tennis-players, &c. .. .. Bale of Guides, pamphlets, &o. Miscellaneous receipts .. .. j 1.627 6 8 1,139 19 10 487 6 10 1,344 1 552 6 •2 4 1,200 16 10 778 8 6 11 19 11 1,841 0 6 930 5 2 18 17 6 1 10 1 34 16 7 2,326 9 10 J., 027 D » Pukaki Accommodation-house — Accommodation fees, &o. 1,627 6 8 1,896 7 C 1,991 5 3 335 4 7 467 14 1 336 3 1 131 11 0 " Hermitage " — Accommodation fees, &o. .. .. 358 Iβ 6 358 Iβ 6 597 10 4 914 15 6 965 15 6 51 0 0 Glade House and Milford Tracks — Accommodation fees, &c. Guiding-fees 397 4 0 114 10 0 511 14 0 511 14 0 Head Office— Sale of pamphlets, cards, photos, &c. 240 12 10 471 1 3 230 8 5 Totals .. .. 4,179 18 1 15,344 8 11 6,943 7 3 4,179 18 1 5,490 16 10 8,401 1 8

H—2

4

The gross receipts show an increase of 82.64 per cent, over the previous year. The expenses of maintenance increased by 24.39 per cent. It may not be out of place here to note that, although the Department maintains the Rotorua baths and collects all fees, its vote does not receive any credit for the amount, which this year totalled £2,415 2s. 10d.; the amount, however, is included in the above returns. Agencies. The usefulness of the agencies wherever they have been established is referred to in appreciative terms on all sides, and the civility and attention accorded by the officers in charge have been testified to by tourists in most commendatory terms. The number of persons who applied for information at the various bureaux during the tourist season was 21,044, a good indication of their usefulness. Advertising. The Department's scheme of advertising has been greatly extended, and much-improved arrangements have been made in several countries, more especially in the Commonwealth and in the United States of America. The continually increasing number of visitors to the colony, I think, may be regarded as a manifestation of the value of the Department's work in this connection. As in the past, large numbers of photographs illustrative of the colony's scenery, thermal wonders, and industrial resources have been extensively distributed: 8,325 pictures have been disposed of for purposes of decorating public museums, libraries, and halls, and steamship-saloons; for reproduction in newspapers, books, and pamphlets; and for making lantern-slides used in lecturing on the colony. A number of first-class sets of slides are now being made use of by lecturers in several countries. A further issue of 100,000 coloured postcards has been printed and found a ready sale, not only in New Zealand, but a large number have been taken by the trade in the Australian States. Guide-books and pamphlets numbering 5,600 have been sold and issued free, together with 5,000 illustrated newspapers. The Department's Itinerary of Travel for 1903-4 has been enlarged, well illustrated, and generally much improved. A few well-selected advertisements permitted the printing of 10,000 copies of this popular booklet without cost to this Department, enabling it to be issued free, and thereby increase its circulation and usefulness. These booklets have been freely distributed in the Commonwealth, United States, and a number were sent to London. The next issue will be much mere largely distributed. In addition to the above-mentioned 10,000 a special edition of 5,000 copies was printed and sent to the colony's Official Representative at St. Louis Fair. The Department has been in communication with the Hawaii Promotion Committee and the Tasmanian Tourist Association with a view to an exchange of literature which would be mutually beneficial. A comprehensive guide to Rotorua district and a book setting out the sporting attractions of the colony, as well as a medical guide to the various hot springs compiled by Dr. Wohlmann, are now in the press. A general guide to the colony and several district guides are well in hand. Several small district maps have been issued, and, in conjunction with the Railway Department, the general map of the colony issued with the perm}' time-table has been greatly improved. The Department is exceedingly short of suitable tourist maps, and very much work remains to be done in order to meet requirements in that direction. Preservation of Scenert and Historic Spots. The administration of the Scenery Preservation Act passed last session has been intrusted to this Department. The Commissioners were appointed in March last, but no expenditure has so far been incurred in connection with the acquisition of scenic spots. During the past year this Department has devoted considerable attention to the preservation of native forest and spots of scenic and historic importance. Officers of the Department have visited many localities where it is desirable that the native vegetation and the remains of Maori fortifications should be saved from destruction. Reports have been made thereon and suggestions submitted to the Scenery Preservation Commission. While anxious to secure the preservation for all time of certain choice areas of native forest in various parts of the colony, it is very far from the Department's desire to interfere with the progress of settlement in bush districts. What is aimed at is the reservation for the perpetual use and pleasure of the people of suitable tracts of forest-growth in the vicinity of centres of population, on the main routes of travel, particularly in the immediate neighbourhood of railways and coachroads, and on the banks of our principal scenic rivers and lakes. Sport. The systematic restocking of our trout-streams and the further provision of " big game " is a work which, in my opinion, is second only in importance to the conservation of our magnificent natural scenery and thermal wonders. The excellent trout-fishing and deer-stalking now possessed by New Zealand are attractions which are annually drawing visitors in increasing numbers from Great Britain, Europe, India, America, and the Australian States. While it is satisfactory to find New Zealand can furnish the angler with better trout-fishing than any other part of the world, care must be taken not to unduly deplete the supply. Many anglers fail to exercise any moderation or forbearance in their fishing. Without laying down an arbitrary rule on the subject sportsmen may be reminded that the useless destruction of fish is opposed to all the instincts of true sport, and they should place a reasonable limit on their catches. A somewhat similar remark may be applied to wild-duck shooting. Enormous bajrs are reported to liaVe been made by individual sportsmen on such favourite shooting-places as Lake Elles-

H.—2

5

mere. Much of the shooting done is for the market, and it appears desirable that there should be some restriction in order to prevent such wholesale slaughter as now takes place on certain shootinggrounds every season. Some more systematic method is also greatly needed to prevent poaching, which is carried on in a wholesale manner in many districts. As pointed out in the Department's last annual report, much might be done by utilising the services of members of the Police Force, Stock Inspectors, and Kabbit Agents to prevent breaches of the Animals' Protection Act and Fisheries Conservation Acts. The dates for opening and closing of the fishing seasons require amending. The season, especially in the northern districts, opens too early and closes too late. At Rotorua the fish have not ceased spawning on the Ist October, and they have commenced again before the season has closed. The season in this district should certainly not open before the Ist November, and should close on the 31st March. The trout-fishing at Rotorua has been particularly good during the 1903-4 season. At the suggestion of this Department a register was kept showing the catches made in Rotorua Lake and adjacent waters. At the close of the season the record showed that 6,952 trout had been caught, aggregating a weight of 13 tons 13cwt. 3 qr. 21£ lb. Amongst the fish taken were many weighing 121b. to 18 Ib. Enormous as the registered catch was, it is considered that probably a third more was actually taken, as many fishermen failed to supply the required particulars. The total quantity of trout taken from the lakes and streams in this district is therefore calculated at close on twenty tons. Many of the greatest catches were made by trolling on the lake. 1 am of the opinion that indiscrimate trolling, with a bait, should not be permitted. There is most excellent fishing at Rotorua, which is proving a great attraction to visitors from abroad, but if the indiscrimate trolling is allowed to continue it is very probable that the fishing will not remain good for more than a few seasons. I would recommend that a trolling-area in the lake should be strictly defined. Big Game. The matter of introducing new varieties of game suitable for rugged and non-settled regions is receiving attention. Several valuable gifts of sport animals have been received. Recently five •'thar," or Caucasian mountain-goats, presented by the Duke of Bedford, arrived from London by the s.s. ." Corinthic." Six goats were originally shipped, but one was lost overboard. The thar are now on Somes Island, and it is proposed to liberate them in the early spring in some mountainous countrj' not yet definitely decided on. These animals are similar in their habits to the Spanish wild goat. Their most distinctive feature is the horns, which are black and large, and directed upwards and backwards in a single plane, with the tips widely separated and generally directed downwards. The base section of the horns is triangular, and ornamented in front with knobs. Six Japanese deer, also presented by the Duke of Bedford, are expected by an early steamer. The thanks of the Government are due to Mr. St. George Littledale for the very valuable assistance he has given in obtaining these fine sporting animals. A number of wapiti, the large North American deer (Cervus canadensix), have been presented to the colony by President Roosevelt, of the United States. Inspector Moorhouse of this Department has been sent to America for the purpose of attending to their safe transport. When these animals have increased in sufficient numbers they will provide excellent sport, both for our own people and for visitors from abroad. Visits of Inspection. Since last annual report the Superintendent made visits to the Kawhia and King-country districts, Te Aroha,.Rotorua, the Bay of Plenty, the Urewera country, &c, in the North Island ; and also at Hanmer Springs, the Southern Lakes, Milford Sound, and Stewart Island. St. Louis Purchase Exposition. In the short time at its disposal prior to the opening of the great Exposition at St. Louis, U.S.A., the Tourist Department (in conjunction with the Department of Industries and Commerce) arranged an exhibit well representative of the colony's varied scenic attractions, ils excellent sport and its industrial resources. The exhibits were shipped to America by the s.s. " Sierra "in April. Space has been allotted to New Zealand at the Exhibition in the Palace of Agriculture, and the Forestry, Fish, and Game Building. The exhibits sent by the Department included a great many choice photograph enlargements, and oil, water-colour, and pastel paintings depicting scenery, cities, industries, &c, throughout New Zealand; pictures of typical Maoris and Maori life; sporting trophies, consisting of many splendid stags' heads and some monster trout; specimens of Maori carving, weapons, and utensils; and a large quantity of attractive literature and advertising matter calculated to catch the tourist's eye. The colony's office at the exhibition is well supplied with Government Year-books, copies of annual reports of the various Departments of public utility, statistics dealing with the progress and development of the country, and data useful to those who think of settling in New Zealand. The exhibits of agricultural and other produce made by the Department of Industries and Commerce are a valuable adjunct to the Tourist Department's display, and the whole exhibit should be of considerable service as an advertisement for the colony. The following is a list of principal exhibits sent to the Exposition and displayed in the New Zealand courts: — Industries and products: Bales of four grades of New Zealand phormium-fibre; binder-twine made from phormium-fibre; a large and varied assortment of flax dressed by Maoris; a large variety of Maori kits coloured with Native dyes; a large exhibit of rabbit-skins, showing all varieties; exhibits of wheat, oats, barley, peas, beans, cocksfoot, rye-grass, white and red clover, timothy and cow-grass seeds, different classes of grain in sheaves; different qualities of tallow;

H.-2.

6

wool —greasy, scoured, and manufactured; specimens of New Zealand timbers, polished and un polished, including some fine pieces of kauri; hops (from Nelson); cheese. Oil and water-colour paintings by Messrs. Butler, Howorth, Gibb, Peele, Perrett, Wilson, Madden, Baker, Wright, Leslie, Hamilton, Kirkwood, Carter, Mrs. Field, and Miss Hodgkins. The places depicted include Lake Rotorua, Waimangu Geyser, Waitomo Caves, Lake Taupo, Wanganui River, Lake Waikaremoana, Great Barrier Island, Caswell Sound, Milford Sound, Smith Sound, Lakes Manapouri, Te Anau, Wakatipu, Coleridge, Kanieri, Otira Gorge. &c. About three hundred enlarged photographs of New Zealand scenery and Maori life are on exhibition, besides coloured photographs of Native scenes and subjects, and some thousands of smaller photographs of pastoral, agricultural, mining, and sawmilling industries, and Maori life. k large number of these pictures are framed in New Zealand woods. A notable feature of the Department's art-gallery is the collection of splendid oil-paintings of celebrated Maori chiefs, by Lindauer, kindly loaned by Mr. H. E. Partridge, of Auckland. A valuable oil-painting, " The Arrival of the Maoris," by Goldie and Steele, was lent from the Auckland Art Gallery. Game: Twenty large rainbow and brown trout, representing fish weighing from 121b. to lb., preserved and mounted on New Zealand woods; and numerous stags' heads. Exhibits by business firms through the medium of the Tourist Department included the following: Loan and Mercantile Agency Company, Blenheim, on account of Mr. Coulter, an exhibit of wool fleeces and hemp; Clapham Bros., Ashhurst, patent horse-holders, wheel-lock, and other New Zealand patents; Messrs. Thomson and Co., Dunedin, large exhibit of aerated waters and cordials; an exhibit from the Milburn Lime and Cement Company. Departmental Representation: The Railway Department, Public Trust Office, Government Life Insurance, Labour Department, Agricultural Department, Industries and Commerce, and Tourist Department supplied a large number of illustrated papers, books, and statistics showing the progress of the colony during the last fifty years, and giving particulars of the colony as a place for settlement and recreation. The Tourist Department supplied a large quantity of lanternslides, plain and coloured. Maps of the whole of the colony, and in detail, are available for reference, with New Zealand directories. Copies of all the principal New Zealand weekly newspapers are being sent to the Exposition during the time it is open. These are for reference by visitors to the New Zealand Court. Private exhibits: Companies, institutions, and private persons have lent exhibits as follows: Union Steamship Company, models of the company's latest steamers and photographs of its principal vessels engaged in the intercolonial and coastal services; Westport Coal Company, photographs of its coal-mines and their working ; W T estport Harbour Board, photographs of Westport Harbour and coal-loading operations; Greymouth, ditto; Christchurch Meat r works Company, photographs of works, slaughtering, loading, and shipping frozen meat; Mr. John Strang, Gladstone, Wairarapa, a red-deer stag's head carrying seventeen points; Mr. Peter Gow, Waipukurau, a red-deer stag's head of sixteen points; Mr. T. E. Donne, Wellington, twelve red-deer stags' heads, some fine specimens of Maori carving, and beautiful Maori feather mats; Mr. F. H. Coombs, Auckland, six large fallow-buck heads; Mr. G. W. S. Patterson, Auckland, a very fine collection of kauri-gum specimens. North Auckland. Last summer the Department's photographer was despatched on a special tour through the north, in order to obtain pictures of the principal scenic spots, as well as of industrial and Native subjects. He spent several weeks in the district, visiting Kaipara, the northern Wairoa, Whangarei, Kamo, Hikurangi, the Bay of Islands, Hokianga, Whangaroa, Mangonui, and other localities. As the result of his trip several hundreds of photographs were secured. These are now available for advertising purposes, and serve to convey a very comprehensive idea of the varied attractions which the North of Auckland offers to the tourist and the settler. An amount of £200 is required to complete the road from the head of navigation on the Northern Wairoa (near the junction of the Wairua and Mangakahia Rivers) to the Whangarei Main Road, a distance of about one mile and a half. The construction of this short section is necessary in order to enable vehicular traffic to be carried on direct from the steamer-landing. When completed the road will considerably facilitate tourist traffic between Auckland and Whangarei by way of the Northern Wairoa and the Wairua Falls, a route which promises to become a most attractive one. Little Babrier Island (Native Bird Reserve). The annual report of the Secretary of the Auckland Institute, dealing with the native birds on the Little Barrier Island (Hauraki Gulf), which is a reserve for indigenous avifauna and flora, will be found in the Appendices. It is satisfactory to note from the report that several species of the rare native birds are on the increase, notably some which are now extinct on the mainland. Some kakapo and kiwi from the southern sounds have been placed upon the island during the past year. TE AEOHA. The popularity of this place as a health and pleasure resort is steadily growing. The mineral drinking-waters are in considerable demand. During the past year a number of improvements were carried out in connection with the baths and grounds. The bowling-green has been drained and regrassed and a long flower-border made, running parallel with the street frontage of the domain property. The terrace roadway has been improved, and a gate placed at the north-east end of the terrace in order to admit vehicular traffic. The track leading to the top of the Bald Spur, behind the baths—a favourite climb—has been cleared and put into repair. At the frequent request of temiis-players and convalescents a good

7

H.—2

grass tennis-court, capable of accommodating simultaneously two sets of players, has been laid down. An excellent croquet-lawn has also been made. A head gardener and one male and one female bath-attendant have been added to the staff during the year. The revenue collected at Te Anoha for the year ending the 31st March, 1904 (the first complete fear of the Department's control), amounted to £1,490 19s. The total number of baths taken was 40,330. The revenue from this resort for the years ending the 31st December, 1902 and 1903, was £1,009 15s. 9d. and £1,030 7s. respectively. It will be necessary to give considerable attention to Te Aroha's baths and domain during the current year. Nearly the whole of the buildings require painting, and repairs are necessary to several. No. 1 hot baths should be reduced in size in order to get the water to a required temperature. The wooden bath in No. 7 building used for skin-disease should be replaced by one of porcelain. The asphalt tennis-court requires levelling and reconstructing, and a landslip at the back of the bowling-green removed, and necessary- repairs effected. The fence on both sides of the domain requires renewing; this should be done at an early date, as fowls and dogs now gain access to the garden and do much damage. The following improvements are recommended: — (1.) Erection of summer-house over No. 15 drinking-spring, and erection of an inviting fountain at this spring, and also at the Octagon. (2.) Repairs to tunnel, and erection of vapour bath in connection therewith. (3.) Additions and alterations to administrative buildings to provide for a consultingroom for the Resident Medical Officer —a very urgent work —and to provide facilities for proper attention to public library. (4.) Reconstruction of the cold-water swimming-bath. (5.) Converting a small creek, now in a rather unsightly condition near Cadman Baths, into a series of small lakelets and cascades. With these and a few minor matters attended to Te Aroha would be fairly well equipped to meet requirements in the immediate future. ROTORUA. It is essential in the interests of the whole colony that Rotorua should be made a first-class spa. Much has been done to scientificallj develop the springs and to provide interests for visitors, but much still remains to be accomplished. Improved bath buildings with more up-to-date medical appliances, a purer water-supply, better accommodation for treatment of invalids, and a cottage hospital are in urgent demand. More must also be done in the way of providing amusements for visitors, more especially for invalids who are not able to move round the district to enjoy the thermal and scenic attractions. The Department's efforts to popularise Rotorua have proved most successful. The visitors by rail during the year 1903-4 numbered 16,956, as against 10,891 for the previous year, an increase of 56 per cent. The following table shows the progress made since this Department came into operation in 1901 : —

Return of the Number of Passengers booked to Rotorua for Years ending 31st March, 1901, 1902, 1903, 1904 respectively, exclusive of Bookings from Flag Stations.

To the above figures must be added the traffic" overland from Wanganui and Napier, which is now considerable. The total visitors to Rotorua during the past year would probably exceed 20,000. The Sanatorium. A busier year than usual has been experienced at the Sanatorium. The receipts for accommodation and from doctors' out-patients amounted to £1,747 Is. Id. for 1903-4, as against £1,306 13s. 3d. for the previous year. I have again to draw attention to the unsuitability of the present building. It in no way meets the requirements of the place. The accommodation is insufficient, and what there is of it is not such as would induce persons used to comfortable surroundings to enter the institution for treatment. A larger and much more up-to-date building is required, one constructed and run on lines calculated to attract invalids from abroad. lam convinced that such an institution would be a direct financial success, beside providing what is an absolutely necessary equipment for a first-class spa. Mineral Drinking-water. During the year large quantities of Te Aroha drinking-waters have been conveyed to Rotorua, and placed on sale at a nominal fee. These waters have been in good demand and are much appreciated. The receipts from sales amounted to £48 17s. 10d,

Ordinary. Year ending Slst March. Sil igle. Return. holiday Excursion. Special Excursion. Round Trip. Total. First. Second. First. Second. i First. J Second." First, j Second. First. Second. 144 106 199 192 200 386 309 640 .901 1902 L903 L094 F. 666 1,080 1,530 2,080 1,458 551 718 2,161 923 1,877 3,659 1,081 2,009 5,058 1,176 2,886 395; 1,236 884 4,806 370 1,039 671 2,389 175 157 106 421 132 1,694 5,606 12,122 10,891 16,956

H.—2

8

It will be necessary for the Department to go much further in this direction. Shortly a proposal will be placed before you for the purchase of a small aerated-water plant, to enable the Department to bottle and place on sale in a more palatable and attractive form some of the most valuable mineral waters of the colony. Baths. The popularity of the baths continues to grow rapidly. For the year 1903-4 the number of baths taken was 102,259, yielding a revenue of £2,415 2s. 10d., as against 94,846 baths and a revenue of £1,874 ss. 7d. for the previous year. The receipts from this source have more than doubled during the last three years. Owing to the rapidly decaying state of the old buildings the cost of maintenance becomes greater year by year, and the erection of more adequate buildings to meet growing demands is most urgent. Considerable improvements have been effected in the Aix-massage buildings in order to meet demands. The additional work in this department has necessitated the employment of two additional operators. New Bath Buildings. The plans and specifications for the new bath buildings are now well forward, and it is hoped that all preparations for the calling of tenders will be completed at an early date. Tea-house. The new tea-house to take the place of the temporary tent was opened on the 12th December. The establishment of these commodious rooms so picturesquely situated in the Government grounds is much appreciated by visitors, and undoubtedly adds to the attractions of the place. The receipts for the year amounted to £295 14s. 3d. for eight months, the tent having been closed in mid-winter. It is expected that the increasing popularity of a winter season at Rotorua will warrant the new house being kept open throughout the year. It is a popular resort in the evening when bands are playing in the grounds, or open-air concerts are in progress. Buildings. Considerable improvements and additions to buildings were effected during the year, principally in connection with the Aix baths, to which four new dressing-rooms and a dry massageroom were added, necessitated by the great demand for massage treatment. The heating of the rooms with pipes carrying hot Rachel water was also carried out, the electric light was installed throughout the building, and needle bath and medical appliances supplied. It was also found necessary to increase the water-supply to this building, and a new water-main, in part 8 in. and part 6 in., was laid from Fenton Street, a distance of 1,125 ft. The new Tourist Office in Fenton Street was completed, and is now occupied by the Agent and his staff. The electric light was installed, and the enclosure fenced and laid out in path and lawn. Several minor improvements were made to the Sanatorium buildings, and some necessary repairs were carried out at the Postmaster Bath attendant's and the gardener's cottages. A more efficient and up-to-date fire plant for the protection of Government buildings is about to be ordered. Gardens. The high standard of excellence for which these grounds are noted has been well maintained during the year, although comparatively little has been done in further extensions. The trees and plants put down in forming the Queen's Drive last year have made good progress. Much care and attention has been bestowed upon the playing-greens, the surface of which, owing to the nature of the soil, quickly crumbles and wears. A difficulty is experienced in obtaining locally suitable top-dressing, and this adds considerably to the cost of maintenance. The amount taken in players' fees was £56 18s. 9d., compared with £47 7s. for last year. During the rear a new kitchen-garden was laid out and fenced for the purpose of growing fruit and vegetable supplies for the Sanatorium, tea-house, and Waimangu House. The result of the first season's work has been most satisfactory, full supplies of every kind of vegetable for these places having been successfully grown. The fruit-trees have shown splendid growth, and fair returns are expected next season. This branch of the gardens will prove most profitable and useful to the Department. A terrace was constructed round the newly erected tea-house, and an ornamental lakelet was formed facing the building. The Pukeroa, Hamurana, and Kuirau Reserves and the grounds round the different Government buildings were kept in the usual manner. An asphalt tennis-court and golf-links are very much required at Rotorua to provide winter amusements for visitors. Electrical Works. As pointed out in last year's report the present generator plant is vow fully loaded, and the question of additional plant is receiving careful consideration. An electrical engineer is about to visit the works and furnish a report as to the best means of meeting the demand for increased power. Fifty-three new connections were made during the year, and in February an all-night service was commenced. The receipts amounted to £1,032 19s. 10d., compared with £544 19s. for the previous year. It was found necessary to effect a change in the staff. Mr. R. C. White has been transferred from Okere to Rotorua, in order to better control the whole of the working, his place being taken by Mr. E. Beal, formerly town electrician at Rotorua.

H.-2

FRONT ELEVATION: PROPOSED NEW BATH-BUILDINGS, ROTORUA.

H.—2

9

Water-supply. The fees collected for water-supply for 1903-4 amounted to £236, as against £132 12s. 6d. for the previous year. The usual maintenance-works in connection with cleaning flumings and settling-tanks have been satisfactorily carried out. A new 8 in. and 6 in. main, as mentioned elsewhere, was laid in Fenton Street to give increased supply to the Aix bath. The present water-suppl}' is found to be quite inadequate to the growing demands of the town. A better supply is absolutely essential for the purposes of the new drainage system now being installed, and for the maintenance of the health of the town. As the drainage system is being rapidly relaid it is important that an improved water-supply should be put in hand at a very early date. Estimates for this work have already been placed before you. Drainage. The extensive work of repairing the defects and completing the system is now in the hands of the Public Works Department, and the work is being pushed on as rapidly as possible. Maori Museum at Rotorua. Through private generosity an additional attraction for visitors is to be provided at Rotorua in the form of a Maori Museum, illustrative of Native art and workmanship, and including Maori weapons, utensils, implements, carvings, and historical relics. Mr. T. E. Donne has offered to establish a museum with his own valuable collection of Maori curios —the result of twenty-five years' collecting —and to house the articles in a large carved whare, on a site adjoining the Government Tourist Office in Rotorua. To the tourist this will form a most interesting feature of the town. A number of Arawa chiefs have expressed their willingness to assist in making the collection a representative one by depositing some of their own heirlooms and historic relics for safe-keeping, and for the mutual benefit of visitors and residents, an example it is hoped other Natives will follow when the museum is opened. Maori Villages at Rotorua. Travellers expect to find many of the pictureque elements of Maoridom at Rotorua, and they are seldom disappointed, except in one particular —viz., the Native dwellinghouses in Ohinemutu and Whakarewarewa. Some of the houses are typically Maori, but the majority are obstrusively ugly little weatherboard cottages, often unpainted and quite disfiguring what would otherwise be pretty kaingas. While the Maori Councils have done excellent work in many Native districts in improving the sanitary condition of the dwellings and villages, it seems a pity that in carrying out reform the old-style whares are being swept away only to be replaced by the most unsightly of pakeha-built houses. The old whares were no doubt insanitary and unwholesome in many respects, but their plan of architecture, though simple, was effective and highly picturesque. A compromise between the old and the new order of things could be made by modelling the weatherboard houses on something of the plan of the whare, with its peculiar pitch of roof, frontal bargeboards, or rnaihi, wide side posts and projecting porcli with supporting pillar, surmounted by a decorative finial in the form of a tekoteko. There are one or two dwellings of this sort already in the district, notably, one in Ohinemutu, which combines the picturesque Maori exterior with a comfortable interior. A village consisting of clean and neat buildings of this sort, with a pa-palisade surrounding the marae and the carved meeting-house, " Tama-te-kapua," would be an immense attraction to visitors and a decided ornament to the foreshore of the lake. The Maoris would, no doubt, take up the idea very readily, and in this district, where the assistance of the Native woodworkers and artists is to be had, much could be done to decorate the dwellings in the way of carving and painting after the ancient designs. At present Ohinemutu and Whakarewarewa are, to a large extent, collections of the ugliest of European shanties, the presence of which considerably discounts the natural beauty and novelty of the surroundings. These remarks apply with even greater force to the settlement on Mokoia Island. lam of opinion that some properly constituted authority should be empowered to veto the erection of unsightly buildings at these resorts. Forest surrounding Rotorua Lakes. A number of the lakes in the Rotorua district are fringed by beautiful forest vegetation, which adds considerably to the attractiveness of the various tourist routes, and which it is desirable should be preserved intact. At the eastern end of Rotoiti there is a very fine tract of bush, covering the Tahuna Flat for about one mile and a half, extending towards Lake Rotoehu and clothing the adjacent mountain of Matawhaura. The Rotorua-Rotoma-Matata Main Road traverses this bush, which is one of the prettiest bits of forest scenery in the thermal district. Portions of the shores of Rotoehu and Rotoma are also well wooded. On the Rotorua-Waimangu round tour via Tarawera the traveller passes through the Tikitapu Bush, which has regained much of the.luxuriance of which it was bereft by the Tarawera eruption. In the vicinity there is some forest-growth on the slopes of Moerangi Mountain, overlooking Lake Tikitapu. A short distance away, but not seen from the road, is the beautiful little lake of Okareka, surrounded by forest-covered hills. This lake is not yet visited by tourists, being off the ordinary track; but in time to come it will no doubt become widely known as a favourite pleasuring-spot. The same remark applies to Lake Okataina, which is a larger lake completely shut in by wooded and shrubgrown hills. The whole of the forest region hereabouts extending from the vicinity of Tarawera Lake to Rotoiti should be preserved. 2—H. 2.

H.—2

10

Whakarewarewa Reserve. The thermal action on this reserve maintains its activity and continues to attract very large numbers of visitors. A pavilion to afford shelter to visitors has been erected on the reserve. It has been constructed with raupo and Maori carvings in order that its appearance should be in keeping with the surroundings. A shelter lookout has also been erected for the caretaker. I am of the opinion that the time has arrived when the Government should make a charge for admission to Whakarewarewa to provide sufficient revenue to cover the cost of maintenance of the reserve. A nominal charge of 6d. per head should meet the case, and I think that no one could reasonably object to pay such a very small sum. For the proper protection of the " sight " it is necessary to keep a caretaker, while a considerable outlay is also to be met for the purpose of keeping the footways in order. I see no reason why visitors should not contribute towards the upkeep of these facilities. Model Pα. Good progress has been made towards the erection of a Maori pa in the Geyser Valley. The pa has been modelled as far as possible on the lines of an old fighting-pa, and is placed on the site of the historic pa of the Tuhourangi. The earthworks and ditches have been completed and the carved posts of the double palisading erected. The carvings have been splendidly executed by the Natives of the district. Already the works have excited much interest amongst visitors, and it is quite apparent that when completed it will be a great attraction to the district, and, more than that, it will in no great while repay the Government the cost of erection. Bound Trip: Tarawera, Rotomahana, and Waimangu. This trip has financially more than realised expectations. The number of passengers carried by the Department over Lakes Tarawera and Rotomahana numbered 3,073, representing fares amounting to £1,794 17s. 6d. The traffic has now increased to such large dimensions that it is impossible to adequately cope with it by means of rowing-boats. A contract has therefore Been let for two oil-launches, 40 ft. in length and 8 ft. beam, fitted with 15-horse power Gardiner engines. These launches will shortly be completed and placed on the lakes. When running the Department will be in a position to carry upwards of 120 passengers per day over these lakes, and also to open up new sights in the district which are at present inaccessible. In order to properly control the traffic over these lakes it has been found necessary to make reserves for internal communication on the lands giving access to the landings. Waimangu Geyser. The great geyser maintains its wonderful activity. It is rapidly becoming to this colony what Niagara is to America —its great and foremost national attraction. Many worldwide travellers class it as the world's greatest natural wonder, others as second only to the great Niagara. The one thing certain is that it only requires to be brought under notice of sightseers abroad to bring many hundreds of them to this colony. A lamentable disaster occurred on the occasion of a notable shot in September last, four lives being lost owing to the unfortunate victims approaching too closely the crater of the geyser. The Department's guides were held to be in no way to blame, it being shown that every precaution for the safety of the visitors was taken, warnings having been duly given. In order to prevent a recurrence, an area round the geyser has been fenced with barbed wire, and the guides have been appointed special constables to enable them to the more authoritatively enforce their warnings. Waimangu Accommodation-house. This house is situated within a short distance of the geyser, a good view of which is obtained from the verandah. It was opened in October, and the result has more than exceeded anticipations. So great has been the demand for accommodation that the Rotunda has on several occasions had to be utilised for the purpose, as many as twelve beds being occupied in addition to the full house. Mr. and Mrs. S. C. Allen, of Wellington, were placed in charge, and their conduct of the house has been satisfactory. The number of visitors for the six months was 1,266, and the receipts £929 6s. 6d. Further improvements, such as the erection of a rotunda and bath-houses, have been effected during the year, and the house has been connected by telephone with Rotorua and Waiotapu. The bedroom accommodation at this house is very inadequate, visitors having been turned away daily during the whole of last season. Another twelve to twenty bedrooms and a smoking-room are very urgently required. Even these additions would only temporarily meet requirements if the traffic continues to increase at the present rate. A new road from W T aimangu to Waiotapu now being formed will shorten the distance between these two places from nine to five miles. Waiotapu. This reserve has had the usual attention. All the paths have been kept in good order. The native trees planted some time ago are making good progress. OKAKEIKORAKO. A portion of the interesting thermal district of Orakeikorako, on the Waikato River, between Taupo and Atiamuri, is already owned by the Government. Representations have now been made with a view to acquiring an additional 95 acres in this locality, and it is suggested that the land required should be taken under the Scenery Preservation Act. The roads to this resort have been very much improved.

11

H.-2

WAITOMO CAVES. At present the Waitomo Limestone Caves, in the vicinity of Otorohanga, King-country, are partly owned by the Natives. It is advisable, for the better preservation and management of these beautiful caves, that the Government should secure sole control. Already they have been greatly disfigured by thoughtless vandals, and if not put under proper control at a very early date the caves will be irreparably injured. KAWHIA DISTRICT. Around the shores of Kawhia Harbour there is some beautiful native vegetation which it is advisable should be preserved from destruction. Close to Kawhia township there are several fine old pohutukawa trees, probably the largest in existence outside the Hauraki Gulf and adjacent waters. One of these trees is known to the Maoris as the " Papa-o-Karewa," and another as " Tangi-te-Korowhiti." The great overarching roots of the latter formed a cave which was formerly used as a dwelling-place. Both trees were sacred in the olden days, and were associated with some of the remarkable ceremonies of the local Maoris. Unfortunately they are being undermined by the sea, which at high water washes up under their roots, and they will sooner or later fall unless some steps are taken to protect them. I would suggest that a stone breastwork or sea-wall should be built round each tree and filled in with earth, in order to protect them from the tide. It may seem a small matter to single out particular trees for preservation, but these fine growths of centuries are well worth saving from destruction. The Rakaunui Creek, an arm of Kawhia Harbour, and the Marokopa River, about twelve miles south of Kawhia, are two beautiful streams, the surrounding lands of which should be preserved for scenic purposes. The Piripiri Caves, said to be larger than Waitomo, are on the banks of Marokopa River. The great drawback to Kawhia as a tourist resort is the condition of the road from Pirongia to Kawhia Harbour. It is for a great part of the year impassable for vehicles. The horse-track from Otorohanga to Kawhia should also be improved. This track permits visitors reaching Kawhia vid Waitomo Caves. THE MOKAU RIVER. Recently an officer of this Department visited the Mokau district, and canoed up the Mokau River from the Heads to the terminus of traffic, a distance of about forty-five miles, thence travelling through the King-country, with a view to gauging the value of the route as a scenic track. When the river is rendered navigable for power-launches or steamers to the vicinity of the present head of canoe traffic, it will undoubtedly become a popular route of travel, offering as it does some of the finest forest and river scenery in the Island. At present the Mokau is only navigable by steamers for about twenty-two miles; above this there are numerous rapids, averaging about one to every three-quarters of a mile, until Totoro, the head of canoe navigation, is reached. An unroaded gap of two or three miles separates the river-head from Mahoenui, the nearest point on the Kuti-Mokau Main Road. From here the railway-station at Te Kuti may be easily reached in a day. Between Waitara and Mokau Heads the main road passes through country abounding in fine landscapes, and crosses over a high ridge of Mount Messenger, an off-spur of the Parininihi Range. The road over this mountain is at times in bad condition, owing to the nature of the country, but in the summer season it is, as a rule, in fairly good order. TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK. Two huts, one on Mount Tongariro and one at the foot of Mount Ruapehu, have been erected during this year. These will be a very great convenience to climbers. The attractions of this park are becoming better known, and consequently the number of visitors has greatly increased. TOKAANU-PIPIRIKI ROAD. A luncheon-room has been erected at the end of the first stage from Tokaanu, in order to provide shelter for travellers there, and convenience for obtaining tea, &c. This building supplies a much-felt want; hitherto, in wet weather, travellers were compelled to take their luncheon in the stables. The road from Tokaanu to Pipiriki urgently requires repairs in several parts. There have been more complaints concerning this coaching-road than any other similar road in the colony. THE WANQANUI RIVER. Since the extension of the Auckland railway-line to Taumarunui and the inauguration of power-launch traffic from Pipiriki to that point, the Wanganui River has become increasingly popular as a tourist route. The trip down this beautiful waterway for nearly 140 miles makes one of the finest pleasure routes in New Zealand. A great deal has been done to render the upper portion of the river navigable, but a number of the rapids are still very serious and often dangerous obstacles. Snagging was proceeding during the past summer a short distance below Taumarunui. Every season sees an improvement in the navigable condition of the river, but considerable work is still needed in places. Messrs. Hatrick and Co. are providing for next season a large and comfortably equipped house-boat, which will be moored on the river at a point between Pipiriki and Taumarunui, and it is expected that an improved class of vessel will make the connection with the railway terminus. MOUNT EGMONT. The ascent of Mount Egmont is becoming a more popular holiday climb every summer. For the season 1903-4 the visitors' books at the various mountain-houses showed that many more

H.—2

12

travellers had visited Egmont than in any previous season. The climbing season was unusually prolonged this year, owing to the fine autumn. The necessity for better accommodation for travellers is very apparent, the existing mountain-houses (four in number), though exceeding!}' useful, being unsuitable to the requirements of any considerable tourist traffic. Various improvements to roads and tracks have been made during the year; but it is necessary, if this grand mountain is to be exploited as thoroughly as it should be, that good driving-roads to the principal mountain-houses should be provided. The Annual Report of the Chairman of the Egmont National Park Board will be found in the Appendices hereto. TE PUIA (EAST COAST). As reported last year these springs were inspected by the Department's officers, and as a result several adjustments in the reserve boundaries are recommended in order that the fresh-water supply may be protected, and the reserve much improved. MORERE SPRINGS. During the year I visited this locality and found that several improvements were necessary. Some 50 chains of fencing has been finished, at a cost of £50, and the erection of improved bath-houses is well in hand. LAKE WAIKAREMOANA. The opening of a first-class accommodation-house at this lake has greatly increased its popularity as a holiday resort. The new oil-launch " Kolnirangi," placed on the lake to enable visitors to make excursions, has greatly added to the attractions. Unfortunately the season at the lake is a very short one, why, it is difficult to any : 279 persons visited the house, but all within a very short period, and during that period the bedroom accommodation was much short of requirements. Additions to this house will have to be provided for at an early date. The receipts for the year amounted to £441 2s. od. Improvements at this resort, consisting of fencing paddock for grazing, erection of jetty and skids, also the building of a small three-roomed cottage for the accommodation of servants, are now being undertaken. The laying out and planting of lawns, gardens, and orchards is also well in hand. A change in the management has taken place during the year, Mr. Mayo having resigned, Mr. J. P. Ward being appointed to fill the vacancy. Lake Waikaremoana will never attain the position as a tourist resort that its beauties deserve until it is made easy of access from Rotorua. At present visitors may drive from Rotorua via Galatea as far as Te Whaiti (about sixty miles), and ride another twenty miles over a very indifferent road to Ruatahuna. Thence to the lake shores (about seventeen miles) there is a very rough bush track, better suited for walking than riding. It is necessary that the formed road from Te Whaiti to Ruatahuna should be put in good order for vehicular traffic, and that the gap intervening between the latter point and the lake should be completed. As was pointed out in the last report of this Department, this road when finished will open up one of the finest scenic districts in the colony —the Urewera Country —and will enable coach travellers to make the trip from Rotorua to Waikaremoana in two days. The Urewera route is undoubtedly one of the future great coachingruns in New Zealand, and it will liave the additional advantage of directly connecting two of the colony's chief pleasure resorts. The isolation of this resort from the colony's telegraphic system no doubt militates against its complete success, and I would strongly urge the extension of the line from Frasertown to the lake. The Department has in the meantime inaugurated a carrier-pigeon service between Lake House and Wairoa, which will be in full working-order for the coming season. MARLBOROUOH SOUNDS. During the past year attention has been given to the need for bringing under notice the attractions of the Marlborough sounds as a pleasure resort. Pelorus Sound and the many other indentations of this beautiful region are exceptionally fine holiday-grounds, and the only wonder is that they are not more popular amongst New-Zealanders, and particularly Wellington people. The Sounds County includes one of the most magnificent series of sheltered harbours in the world, and the yachting and fishing is excellent. Considerable space is devoted to Pelorus Sound and other leading scenic districts in Marlborough in the Department's descriptive guide-books now being compiled. A list of places of accommodation for travellers in this sound and vicinity is kept by the Department, for the information of intending visitors. WESTLAND. The great glaciers of the Franz Josef and the Fox, in South Westland, are not visited by many tourists, owing to their remoteness from the ordinary tracks of travel and the difficulties of access. However, for those who like a spice of adventure in their pleasure, a ride or drive from Hokitika to the Waiho, or a climb over the Alps from Mount Cook Hermitage to the western glaciers will be found a remarkably fine trip, traversing some of the grandest scenic districts in the colony. On Lake Kanieri a small jetty is needed at the landing-place near the Dorothy Falls. Some little work will require to be done in the way of tracks to open up the upper falls to sightseers; the beautiful forest surrounding the lake is one of Kanieri's greatest attractions, and it is desirable that the whole of the bush should be preserved. A lock is necessary on Mahinapua Creek, near Hokitika, in order to improve the navigation of this waterway to Lake Mahinapua. The Dpeartment has been asked to undertake this work, but, in my opinion, the whole cost should not be borne by the Government.

13

H.—2

HANMER HOT SPRINGS. This resort, under the new management, is rapidly becoming more widely and favourably known outside the colony, and the increased number of foreign visitors is a noticeable feature of the year's business. The total number of visitors to the spa increased from 437 for the previous year to 491, and the receipts from £1,200 16s. 10d. to £1,341 os. 6d., to which should be added £119 25., value of free accommodation granted to twenty people. The baths taken have increased in number from 21,719 for the previous year to 26,211. The gross receipts from baths, massage, and games rose from £790 Bs. sd. to £949 2s. Bd., and free baths, &c, to the value of £34 19s. were given. The gross receipts for 1903-4 from all sources amounted to £2,326 9s. 10d., and the total value of free accommodation and treatment to £154 Is., as compared with £1,991 ss. 3d. and £162 10s. respectively for the previous year. Extensive improvements have been put in hand during the year, which will shortly be completed. A tea-house in the grounds will be finished next month, and will enhance the attractions of Hanmer. New and commodious stables have been erected, and other necessary outbuildings are in course of construction. The " Spa " dining-room is to be enlarged to meet the demand for increased accommodation. Some improvements have also been effected in the massage-rooms and bathing-pools, and a large cold-water swimming-bath is being constructed. Further improvements for Aix-massage treatment are required, also a vapour bath and inhalation-room, and better means for supplying drinking-waters to consumers. The work in the gardens has been steadily pushed on by the staff of gardeners, and the further extension of the grounds to include a playing-field for football, cricket, golf, <fee, is contemplated. A reserve has been made on. Conical Hill (Kohatanui), a rest-house erected on the top, and a track formed under the direction of the local committee has been taken over by the Government. This well-graded track and the rest-house at the top provide an easy and convenient means of obtaining an extensive panoramic view of the surrounding country. An officer of the Public Works Department has visited Hanmer, and is preparing a report on a water and drainage system. Estimates for this work will be placed before you at an early date. A much-needed alteration has been made in the railway service from Christchurch, enabling visitors from the north to reach Hanmer on the day of arrival at Lyttelton. A daily coaching service from Culverden throughout the year has been arranged, towards which this Department contributes a subsidy of £100 per annum. PUKAKI ACCOMMODATION-HOUSE. The business at this house during the year has been satisfactory, but the accommodation has been found quite inadequate to meet demands. In October Mr. Ross resigned the caretakership, and Mr. F. W. Glasson and his wife were appointed. The total receipts were £467 14s. Id. Plans and specifications for enlarging and improving the house have been approved and the contract for the work let by the Public Works Department. A much-needed rowing-boat for the lake has also been ordered, and will be ready for use next summer. The pigeon service established between this house, the Hermitage, and Te Kapo has proved of much assistance to the management. MOUNT COOK "HERMITAGE" (SOUTHERN ALPS). Although the season for this resort was a month late in opening owing to bad roads, the business done shows an increase on the previous year. The number of visitors totalled 165, and the receipts £965 15s. 6d. This shows that the substantial increase reported last year was not temporary. The following figures supply gratifying proof of the value of the Department's work in advertising and making attractive this particular resort: Receipts —1900-1, £358 16s. 6d. ; 1901-2, £597 10s. 4d.; 1902-3, £914 15s. 6d.; 1903-4, £965 15s. 6d. The question of rebuilding the " Hermitage " on a new site at Governor's Bush requires early consideration. I cannot recommend any great expenditure on the present premises, as the site on which the house stands is a most unsuitable one. Regarding the mountain and glacier work during the season, Chief Guide Clark reports: — " Weather conditions, which are the most important consideration in the mountains, were on the whole favourable, and in very few cases prevented the carrying-out of any expedition arranged for. The unsurpassed attractions of the upper Tasman Glacier and the views from Malte Brun Hut are at last deservedly recognised and appreciated. In previous years the largest number of visitors to the Malte Brun was twenty-eight. This season the figures are reversed —eighty-two made the trip, while 103 made use of Ball Hut, as against seventy-three for the former year. " The surface of the Tasman Glacier remained remarkably smooth for the whole period; this is very unusual, as generally it becomes crevassed and ridgy towards the end of March and April, and the broken part near the Malte Brun Hut is negotiated with no little timidity by people not used to ice travelling. Excursions were also made to the various interesting points in the district, Scaly Range and snowfields, Mueller and Hooker Glaciers, &c. Five persons crossed the Ball Pass (from Tasman to Hooker Valley), including two ladies—the first for a long time. Several very fine long tunnel ice-caves have formed on the Mueller Glacier near Kea Point, only two miles from the Hermitage. These make a charming trip for all, but especially for people unable to travel far and who enjoy proportionately the novelty of being 100 ft. in the heart of the ice. Four parties were on the Hochstetter Dome at the extreme head of Tasman Glacier, but only three made final ascents.

H.—2

14

" The most interesting expedition of the season was in February, when Dr. Teichelmann, Guide Graham, and myself crossed the Alps to the western side by a new pass between the Peaks of Haast and Haidinger, and which the doctor claims a first-climber's privilege in naming Pioneer Pass. Camping at Hochstetter Bivouac we were forced back to Ball Hut by stress of weather, but three days later renewed the attack. This time we were more fortunate, but the snow was in bad order for climbing, and we spent the day photographing on the grand plateau. Leaving at break of day we crossed over Glacier Dome, 5,500 ft., and descended to the plateau; there rejoined the Haast Ridge at a point higher up (8,000 ft.), and followed the jagged arete along until above the badly broken ice of the Haast Glacier. Then a long traverse to the head basin of the Haast; here it was a heavy tramp in soft snow to the foot of the final 500 ft., and to the pass itself. A wide steep bergschrund barred the way except at the extreme right, and this was only 10 ft. wide at the actual crossing-point. We fought our way breast-high in light crusted drift snow lying at a sharp angle; although the day was warm our hands began to stick to the steel on the axe-heads. After a painful effort I got level with the top and drove in the axe to the head about 2 ft. back. On putting on a little pressure the whole lip came away and threw me back, but I quickly recovered, and finally, with the assistance of two ice-axes and standing on the doctor's shoulders, managed to get over and anchor; the others then came up in safety. This was midday and in glorious weather. The view was magnificent. Looking east we saw the great glacier-system and the barren rugged hills of Canterbury, while to the west were the immense snowfields of the Fox Glacier, then lower the luxuriantly bushclad hills and valleys trending to the Tasman Sea. " The afternoon was extremely hot as we plodded down through soft heavy snow, working among seracs and riding reeve-ridges too sharp to walk over, till we finally reached Chancellor Ridge. Here we met the Rev. Mr. Newton, who was waiting to climb with us, and had made a high bivouac, and lower down a comfortable base camp near Victoria Stream. Here we stayed for the night. The whole trip from Haast Ridge was, I think, the most interesting I have ever made in the course of a varied mountain life. It would need the pen of a writing climber and not that of a climbing writer to do it anything like justice. We had a heavy day of eighteen hours, so next morning took a much-needed rest, and in the afternoon returned to the high bivouac, and made ready for the climb next day. On the following morning we started before daylight, but the weather turned out foggy and drizzly, and we had to content ourselves with making the first ascent of Pioneer Peak, in the centre of Fox Glacier basin. On the ridge we found a seam of perfect crystallized quartz. Crossing over the peak we made a round trip back to Chancellor Ridge, and next morning struck camp and continued down to Fox Glacier Hut, and then on to the Franz Josef. Here Graham and I left our party and returned to the Hermitage by a spur north of and through the basin of the Franz Josef, over Graham Saddle, and down the Kron-Prinz Rudolph Glacier. The time occupied on the return journey was two days. " Some time later Captain Scott and Mr. Ferrar (geologist), of the Antarctic exploring-ship 'Discovery,' paid a visit to the mountains. After their South Pole experiences they were much interested in the thermal faces and the accumulation of moraines found on the eastern side of the Alps. Mr. Ferrar was kind enough to furnish some remarks comparing the glaciers of Mount Cook and the South Pole, which I attach. " Although the season was relatively good and the mountains exceptionally free from snow, the highest flood yet recorded occurred in the rivers in February. The Hooker River rose about 17 ft. above normal level, and threw the water over the suspension bridge, without, however, doing any damage. The cage at the point of the Mount Cook spur still stands, but is on its last legs; any flood may carry it away beyond hope of repair. The cable is at its limit, and is 306 ft. from post to post. " Nothing has been done towards completing the track around Mount Cook spur undertaken by the Roads Department three years ago. This work is an urgent necessity, as in the event of the river rising and affecting the cage, returning parties from the Tasman are practically blocked. The track only needs four bracket bridges erected to make it serviceable. The other glacier tracks are in fair order. The Ball Hut track is being steadily improved, fine shingle being carried in stretchers and laid on the rough moraine pieces. The Tasman Huts are well equipped and give unanimous satisfaction. A convenience was erected at the Malte Brun, and timber is now ready to put a floor in the main room, 12 ft. by 12 ft., with a concrete hearth. Spouting has been erected at both huts to keep a permanent supply of rain-water —two casks at each place. " Since the Department reserved the land in the vicinity of the glaciers no trespass or fires have occurred, and the general growth of the alpine plants, &c, already bears evidence to the wisdom of the action." The Mount Cook Glaciers: A Comparison. " To the Chief Guide. " Sir,— " The Hermitage, Mount Cook, 18th April, 1904. " My object in visiting the glaciers of Mount Cook and the vicinity was not so much to see the scenery as to make a comparison between the glaciers and the work they have done in the past, and the ice phenomena and glaciers of tne Antarctic (South Victoria Land). " I was much impressed by the quantities of material carried down by the glaciers, especially the Tasman and Muller, for in this respect they are unique, and will go far in explaining the vast quantities of rock-debris which cover the greater part of the British Isles. The Antarctic glaciers, on the other hand, are remarkably free from morainic material, though they give evidence of once having been greater transporting agents than they are at present; but even then the old moraines met with on the slopes of Mount Erebus are minute as compared with those on the mountainside above Glentanner Station and elsewhere. " The ice of the Mount Cook region has certain resemblances to the ice of the mountains of South Victoria Land; but the differences are easily understood when it is known that the tempera-

15

H.—2

ture in the latter locality seldom, if ever, rises above the freezing-point and the snow-line is at sealevel. These points suggest what interesting results would be obtained if the Hermitage was made a meteorological station on similar lines to that on the summit of Ben Nevis. " The Huddleston Glacier is a fac-simile of many glaciers of the Antarctic, especially where steep mountain-sides occur with comparatively little gathering-ground on their summits; but to get an idea of some of the greater Antarctic glaciers, one must imagine the Hooker Valley filled with ice which is continuous with ice in the Tasman Valley as far as Birch Hill Creek, or farther. In a like manner, the shingle-slips would have to be imagined as slopes of neve, as a rule, uncrevassed, and joining with the ice in the main valley in a smooth and even curve. " The great points of contrast, however, between South Victoria Land and the Southern Alps are that in the former there is very little snowfall, practically no running water, and the slopes of rock, whether rock is situ or talus, remain permanently frozen throughout the year, while in the latter area the winter snowfall, though heavy, practically disappears during the summer, the glaciers are constantly diminishing by melting, which takes place even above the snow-line, and the nature of the rock renders it more liable to disintegration, which is accelerated by the running water in summer and the frosts in winter. "Yours, &c, "H. T. Fbrrar, 8.A., "Geologist to the National Antarctic Expedition." QUEENSTOWN (LAKE WAKATIPu). During the past year the principal work carried out in the Wakatipu District has been the improvement, at a cost of £650, of the Queenstown Domain, which is now becoming a favourite resort for visitors to the lake. A bowling-green has been laid down in the Domain. Other works undertaken by the gardener and his assistants included the removal of gum-trees killed by the previous severe winter's frosts, the planting of a number of new trees in suitable places, sowing of grass-seed, repairing gates, erection of rabbit-proof fence round part of the park, the gravelling of paths, and general maintenance and improvement of the grounds. A considerable amount of work remains to be done in the park during the coming year. It will also be necessary to give some attention to the planting of trees, and other improvements on the Queenstown hill track. The question of purchasing land for golf-links in the vicinity of Queenstown is still in abeyance. OMARAMA-PEMBROKB COACH SERVICE. A coaching service was last season established between Omarama and Pembroke in order to encourage travel between Mount Cook and Lake Wanaka direct, instead of having to return to Dunedin. This new service reduces the distance to be travelled by 241 miles. The trip should prove a very popular one. The cost to this Department is £80 and to the Postal Department £40 for the season. SOUTHERN LAKES AND SOUNDS. Glade House, Lake Te Anau. This house was purchased in October, 1903, from Mrs. L. J. Garvey. The purchase included the right to the Crown lease of 50 acres. The house was opened in November under the Department's control, Mr. and Mrs. Garvey being appointed to take charge for the season. The number of visitors during the five months to the 31st March was 285, and the receipts £166 65., which is much greater than any previous season's business. The house, which is beautifully situated at the head of the lake, on the banks of the Clinton River, is much too small for the growing requirements of this tourist resort, and plans and specifications are now being prepared to provide for additional bedrooms and sitting-rooms. The additions to this house are a most urgent necessity. The traffic over the route is growing very rapidly, and last season, even with the aid of eight tents, at times the demands for accommodation could not be met. Tt is expected that the traffic will be much greater during the coming season, Te Anau-Milford Sound Route. The overland route from Lake Te Anau to Milford Sound has sprung into great popularity as a tourist track since the Government assumed control of the track in October last. During the summer of 1903-4 visitors to the number of 272 travelled this route. Included in the number were tourists from all parts of the world, and one and all express the keenest appreciation of the grandeur of the sounds and the adjacent mountain, waterfall, lake, and canyon scenery. The track was in good order during the summer, and a number of ladies travelled it with ease. This overland journey is considered to be one of the grandest walking-tours in the world. The best of photographs give but a faint idea of the glories of the Clinton Canyon, the Arthur Valley, and the precipices of Milford Sound. Right from the starting-point —Glade House, at the head of Lake Te Anau —the tourist is surrounded by an incomparable array of fine sights. The Clinton Canyon is fourteen miles in length, walled by vertical cliffs in some places 3,000 ft. to 4,000 ft. in height, and sloping back therefrom to still greater elevation. The valley is filled with the richest of forest-growth, and the foot-track winds for many miles through a beautiful beech bush, skirting the Clinton River, an ideal trout-stream. Then the route crosses McKinnon's Pass, on the other side of which are the Sutherland Falls, the Arthur River, Lake Ada, and Milford. The Department has been fortunate in obtaining the services of Mr. R. Murrell as Guide in Charge. Mr. Murrell, with his staff, maintained the track, guided tourists, and provided for them at the several huts en route. The receipts from guiding-fees, hut accommodation, &c, amounted to £345 Bs.

H.—2

16

In addition to the usual traffic the guide conducted sixty-one excursion passengers from the excursion-steamer " Waikare " from Milford Sound to Sutherland Palls. The bulk of tourists who passed over the track did so without guides, and the question of abolishing guiding-fees and substituting a smaller charge, to be applied to all persons leaving Glade House for Milford Sound, is now under consideration, such charge to cover use of track, ferrying across the Clinton River, and for the use of the chair or boat on Arthur River, an extra charge to be made for the boats on Lake Ada if used, guides to be provided at a moderate charge for those who require their services. It is also proposed to station cooks at the principal huts: this has been found necessary in the interests of economic working. Hitherto all provisions for the huts have been carried by the guides, but during the coming season it is proposed to place pack-horses on the track for this purpose. The huts' accommodation to Mintaro and Sutherland Falls stages is not adequate for the traffic, and improvements should be undertaken at an early date. Two more rowing-boats are required on Lake Ada, and a track should be made from the junction of the Cleddau and Tutoko Rivers to the Tutoko Glacier. This track will open up a most interesting trip for visitors to the sounds. I regret to have to report that owing to carelessness on the part of persons quarrying for greenstone in the sounds some of the native bush has been burned. Destruction of native vegetation in this district cannot be regarded as other than a national loss. The key to the development of the whole of this overland trip is the steamer service on Lake Te Anau. I have again to repeat the strong recommendation made in last report for the purchase of this steamer by the Government. The Postal Department and this Department are now contributing £300 per annum by way of subsidy and for carriage of mails, and for this amount adequate return is not being received, and the tourist traffic is not receiving that attention and encouragement which could be given it were the boat under the control of this Department. I am pleased to record that the recommendation made in last report that the Government should reserve a large area in the Fiords County, embracing the wild and rugged country between Lakes Te Anau and Manapouri and the west coast (with the exception of such portions as may be fit for settlement), for the preservation of native fauna and flora, has been given effect to. This great region of mountain, forest, and lake is henceforth to be a grand national park and a home for the native birds. Inquiries are being made as to the suitability of any portions of the country for settlement. The setting aside of the Fiords land reserve is to be gazetted shortly, but the Lands and Survey Department is not at present able to put in hand such a costly work as , the topographical survey of this large area of rugged and only partially explored countr} 7 . In the meantime the Clinton and Arthur Valleys are being reserved for " internal communication," in order to enable the Department to make regulations for the proper control of the traffic over Milford Track and the use of the huts. As these parts abound in native birds, including the tui, kiwi, kakapo, blue mountain-duck, &c, feathered life will be protected, and will continue to be an interesting feature of the overland route from the great scenic lakes to Milford Sound. Routes to other Sounds. The opening-up of overland routes to the numerous magnificent sounds south of Milford is a work of great magnitude, and can hardly be coped with for some years to come, except in so far as concerns the tracks from Lake Manapouri to the head of Doubtful Sound, and from Te Anau to George Sound. For the protection of the boats at Doubtful Sound a shed has recently been erected by this Department. The former track (10 miles 65 chains in length) is in order for foot traffic; there are shelter-huts en route. The George Sound track from the Middle Fiord of Lake Te Anau has been almost obliterated by the growth of vegetation, and the whaleboat on Lake Hankinson has gone to pieces. The track is a fine scenic route, but there does not appear to be any immediate prospect of any volume of tourist traffic in this direction. The Otautau-Manapouri Route. An excellent alternative route to that via Lumsden to and from Lake Te Anau is the OtautauManapouri Road. I am strongly in favour of developing the traffic by this route. Travellers returning from Milford Sound and Te Anau would be able to visit Lake Manapouri, thence steam some miles down the Waiau River (the outlet of the two lakes), and drive to Otautau, where the train is caught for Invercargill. The scenery along the Otautau route is much more interesting than that vid Lumsden. SOUTHLAND. The work of snagging the Pourapourakino River has been taken in hand, and a grant of £60 from the votes of this Department to the Riverton Borough Council has been authorised. It is hoped that the work will be finished in June, and the river as a fishing-resort should be much improved. STEWART ISLAND. Stewart Island has been visited by a considerable number of southern holiday-makers during the year, and also to some extent by English and Australian tourists. It is steadily gaining in popularity as a pleasant, quiet resort, with abundance of good sea-fishing, and many fine boating excursions. There are several accommodation-houses at Half-moon Bay; these were well filled all through the summer.

17

H.—2

A good many tracks about Stewart Island exist, and there is little necessity for further improvement in this direction, but some of the tracks are in need of repairs. I am glad to note that private enterprise is doing something towards the improvement of accommodation on the island.

APPENDIX IT. REPORT OF GOVERNMENT BALNEOLOGIST. Sir, — Government Sanatorium, Rotorua, 16th May, 1904. I am very pleased to report that the past year has been a busier one than ever before for Rotorua. The returns from the baths, the Sanatorium, and the paying out-patients all show remarkable advances on those of the previous year, and events have proved that any expenditure on improvements has been immediately, justified, not only by the increased satisfaction given to visitors, but by the increase of receipts. As I pointed out last year, the expense of forming a first-class mineral-water health resort is very considerable, and I do not think it would be advisable, or, indeed, necessary, to aim at making more than one first-class spa ; but I think that we should gradually improve Te Aroha and Hanmer, until they have at least all the bathing facilities which Rotorua now enjoys, and concentrate our main efforts on making Rotorua absolutely first-class. During the year I have visited Te Aroha and Hanmer, the springs of Katikati, Waingaro, Great Barrier Island, Waiwera, Kamo, and Ohaeawai, and several tourist resorts of the South — Stewart Island, the Lakes, and Milford Sound —with a view of gaining some idea of their possibilities as health resorts. Rotorua. As I pointed out in my last annual report, the essentials of an important mineral-water health resort are first-class bathing appliances, including all those electrical and mechanical accessories required by modern treatment, perfect drainage, an abundant water-supply of a purity above suspicion, and plenty of amusements. The past year has seen important steps taken towards securing two of these conditions—the drainage, which is now being completed in capable hands, and the new baths, which, I understand, are to be proceeded with at once by contract. In my previous report I outlined the scheme for the new bath buildings, and this scheme, with minor alterations and improvements, will, I trust, be adopted in its entirety. That new buildings are most urgently required is only too plainly evidenced by the condition of the old Pavilion Baths. Originally erected of worn-out second-hand timber they are now in a state of utter decay, and require a quite disproportionate expenditure in repair and upkeep. In addition, while suitable enough for their original purpose, they are totally unfit for that graduation of employment which is essential to scientific treatment. By the erection of temporary buildings, such as the Aix-massage and the dry-massage and electrical departments, I have been enabled, to a much greater extent, to vary the treatment to suit the varying needs of individual patients, and a large number of people have been benefited who would otherwise have been sent away unrelieved. Indeed, so great has been the pressure on the baths, that already the original temporary buildings have been almost lost in a mass of annexes. On the men's side, additional accommodation has been obtained by building out a bath-room and three dressing-rooms; on the women's, by absorbing one wing of the Duchess Bath. Provision is also being made for the use of dry massage and electricity at the baths. By the additions to the Aix baths we shall be enabled to put through a very much larger number of bathers a day, with greatly increased receipts and no corresponding increase of expenditure. The other principal improvements during the year have been the erection of the " local sulphur-vapour baths " ai the Blue Bath, and the provision of additional dressing-boxes at the Duchess Swimming-bath. Even with these additional boxes there is often not sufficient accommodation for bathers. During the year a second masseur has been obtained for the Aix baths, and a third operator is being engaged for dry-massage and electrical treatment. The bath figures are eloquent of the progress made by Rotorua during the past year. The estimated number of baths given between the 31st March, 1903, and 31st March, 1904, reached the enormous total of 102,259, an increase of 7,413 since last year. Of these baths 89,731 were paid for, bringing in a revenue of £2,415 2s. 10d., and 12,528 were free, being for the most part given to Sanatorium patients. The following is a comparative return showing the bath-revenue earned: — „ Total Number Reodpts. Year - of Baths. £ s. d. 1900-1 ... ... ... ... ... 56,081 1,027 18 5 1901-2 ... ... ... ... ... 80,003 1,522 0 4 1902-3 ... ... ... ... ... 94,846 1,874 5 7 1903-4 ... ... ... ... ... 102,259 2,415 2 10 The following shows the consultation fees paid in by the Medical Officer and by (lie Government Balneologist:--1900-1 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 419 10 0 1901-2 ... ... ... ... ... .. . . 480 7 6 1902-3 ... .. ... ... ... ... ... 589 10 0 1903-4 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 817 17 0 That so much revenue has been earned by the present baths, handicapped as they are by all the disadvantages of draughty buildings and primitive arrangements, is a fair indication of what 3—H. 2,

H.—2

18

could be earned with new baths, clean and inviting, and fitted with all the most up-to-date accessories. Out of the 89,731 baths paid for, a very large proportion were given at exceedingly cheap rates, some even as low at Id., but an increasing proportion have been higher-priced baths, and this proportion is steadily rising. With the increased accommodation afforded by the alterations at the Aix-massage Baths, and the provision of a room for dry-massage and electrical treatment, I confidently anticipate a greatly increased revenue from this source during the coming year. One very noteworthy feature has been the steady lengthening of the " season." At no period of the year is the place absolutelydead, while the busy summer season is prolonged well into the early winter. Were the houses at Rotorua more substantially built and the bath buildings less damp and draughty, I am quite sure that the winter season would be very much busier than it is. Te Aroha Water. —The provision of a potable mineral water has been much appreciated by the bathing public. The revenue from its sale has been £48 17s. 10d.: the cost I have not the means of estimating with any exactness. During the coming year the increase of the price per glass to 2d. and more perfect arrangements for carriage should almost double the revenue from this source, without increasing the expenditure. Revenue, however, is not the main point that should be looked for in this connection. I would strongly advise that the other valuable potable waters of the country, such as the iodine, the chalybeate, and the purgative waters, should be sold at the baths. An aerating plant should be set up at Rotorua and the waters bottled. By this means they would be rendered more palatable, and would keep better. Table-waters bottled by the same plant could supply the Government accommodation-houses and the railway dining-cars, and there is no reason why they should not be exported. The Sanatorium. —The past year has been a very busy one for the Sanatorium. By carefully filling each bed as soon as possible after it has been vacated we have been enabled to put through a much larger number of patients than last year, so that the total number of days the twenty-two beds have been occupied has risen from 5,837 in 1902-3 to 6,427 in 1903-4. This has resulted both in an increased revenue and an increased expenditure, but 1 am pleased to report that the revenue has increased more rapidly than the expenditure, so that the total expenditure, which last year was (omitting each year's accounts due to the Works Department) £1,792 6s. 2d., has actually decreased this year by £60. Part of this decrease, however, is fallacious, owing to different salaries of medical officers being included ; but omitting this source of confusion, there has been a total increase of expenditure of only £90, although so many more patients have been treated. Thus it will be seen that the cost per day per patient has fallen from 4s. sd. last year to 4s. this year. The decrease would have been even greater had there nob been an extraordinary number of changes of staff. With the decrease in cost there has been an increase in the efficiency of treatment, owing to the increased facilities for treatment afforded by the recent additions to the bathing establishment. Sanatorium and Laundry Staff. —The domestic arrangements have not been working as smoothly as could be desired. Owing to the frequent changes of staff among the nurses, the domestic servants, and the laundry-maids, advertising and travelling expenses have materially increased. The laundry has been found to be quite unfit, structurally, to cope with the additional washing from Waimangu and the tea-house. In a separate report I am showing the alterations that will be required if these institutions are to be catered for. Private Patients. —The number of patients seen by myself has greatly increased, and the fees paid into the Government from this source have risen at even greater ratio than the baths' receipts, without any corresponding increase of expenditure: 1902-3, £589 10s.; 1903-4, £817 17s. I think that a steady increase of receipts from this source may confidently be expected, while the improved appliances which we are gradually obtaining enable more thorough and scientific treatment to be carried out. Maori Out-patients. —The work in this Department has also been heavy, and Dr. Craig has been fully employed. I have to thank him for most valuable and ungrudging assistance. Hospital. —Every year the need of h hospital with a few beds for surgical and medical cases becomes more apparent. It has never been more urgently required than during the last few months. Cases of accident of a severe nature have frequently occurred, and there is no provision in Rotorua for their treatment. It is often positively cruel to send such cases all the way to the Hamilton Hospital. Sufferers from an accident have, perhaps, endured the jolting of eight or ten hours on the journey from the back country into Rotorua, have arrived after the departure of the train, and had to wait for the next day's train to Hamilton. It is not easy for such a one to obtain a night's shelter. Boardinghouses do not, as a rule, care about taking in a man with a crushed limb or a bullet in his chest, with the chance of a major operation, chloroform, and all the sights, sounds, and smells inseparable from these things, and necessarily disturbing to their other guests. At the best, there is another day of unnecessary suffering, and twenty-four hours of most valuable time lost. I believe there is every disposition on the part of the inhabitants of Rotorua to co-operate in providing funds for a hospital. Hydro. —Since I made recommendations last year re this subject, a certain amount of provision has been made for invalids by private enterprise. But it is only on a small scale, and in tentative fashion. There is still a great want of better accommodation for real invalids. Bath-chairs. —In wet weather many invalids experience more harm in going to and from the baths in the rain than they receive benefit from their treatment. At the same time, the bath receipts fall in a quite unnecessary manner in bad weather from invalids' natural unwillingness to face the wet walk to the baths. I have endeavoured to stimulate private enterprise in this matter but without success, and it would almost repay the Government in increased bath fees to provide covered-in bath-chairs, quite apart from the direct fees obtained for their use.

19

H.—2

Medical Besidence. —As I pointed out in my last year's report, this structure, being built of kahikatea, is riddled with worm, damp, and, for the major part, scarcely habitable. I have been compelled to keep my furniture warehoused for two years, as I dare not put it in the house. Guide-book. —During the year I have prepared a guide to the use of the waters at Rotorua, which is now in the printer's hands. I hope to have similar books dealing with Hanmer and Tβ Aroha ready shortly. Public Health, die. —The health of the town has, on the whole, been distinctly better than lastyear. There has been a slight epidemic of dysentery, but cases have been neither so numerous nor so severe as last year. It is probable that the provision of drainage and a water-carriage system of sewerage will go far to diminish these epidemics, but the health of the town will never be assured until a purer water-supply is obtained. Amusements. —There is still a great want felt amongst the visitors of " something to do." The wonderful " sights " provided by nature, and the beautiful gardens coaxed from a sulphurbed by man, only partly fill this want. Invalids are often too crippled to go and see the sights, and the gardens are only for tine weather. I would suggest, amongst other things, the provision of a good professional band, and of zoological gardens, representative of the animals of New Zealand and Australia. While fully acknowledging the excellent work of the two local bands and their sacrifice of time and trouble, I would point out that what is needed is an additional band, playing both in the morning and in the afternoon, and completely sheltered seats for the audience in case of bad weather. It would be quite out of the question for amateur bands to play all day and every day, as well as in the evenings. A harp, violin, and cornet would do very well for a start, and such a band, playing at intervals during the morning and afternoon, would not only do much to dispel the ennui of enforced idleness, but would tend to increase the receipts at the tea-house, and so partly to pay for itself. Zoological gardens, with properly arranged and labelled specimens, would also be a great boon to the visitor, and need not be expensive, as many of the animals would be presented. If, instead of being penned in small cages, the animals were allowed a certain amount of freedom by being kept in large wired-in enclosures containing trees and shrubs, as in the excellent gardens at Dunedin, not only would they be more healthy, but they would afford more interesting exhibits. There is abundant space available in the Government Gardens for this scheme to be carried out. The Museum of Maori Art, as proposed by the Superintendent of the Department, would also help to fill a great want, and I would suggest that it might be supplemented by stuffed specimens of the New Zealand birds, arranged in separate cases with their nests, eggs, &c, instead of being crowded promiscuously together. Also mounted specimens of the plants, timbers, and minerals of New Zealand might gradually be added. A full-sized war-canoe, fitted with raupo sails and paddles, and good specimens of small "dug-out" canoes would form a very attractive feature, and the former could be manned by our own Maori employees, and compete in annual races on the lake. Golf-links might be laid out on Government land, and would be much appreciated by a verylarge number of visitors. Whakarewarewa. —The only baths in charge of the Department here are the " Spout Baths." These are in a very dilapidated condition, and there is no proper means of regulating the temperature of the water, which is often dangerously hot. Again, a caretaker is paid for looking after the baths, which at the same time are free to the public. The whole position is anomalous. I would advise that the baths should be rebuilt, on a modest scale if necessary, and a charge made for their use. Persons unable to afford payment could still get a free ticket, as at Rotorua. I have already forwarded plans for a somewhat more complete set of baths at Whakarewarewa, should the Department see its way to a more liberal expenditure. Value of Tourist Traffic. —It will be seen from the annual returns that money spent on Rotorua gives an immediate and direct return, but I would once more emphasize the point that the direct return is trifling compared with the indirect. Every year the visitors attracted to New Zealand increase in numbers, and no spot draws a larger cosmopolitan crowd than Rotorua. These visitors come to take away health and recollections of a pleasant holiday; they leave behind hard cash in payment. What we are attempting to do on a, small scale Switzerland has done in a large way, and the results there obtained must have a special interest for us. It has been computed by Herr Freuler, of Zurich, that 380,000 people visit Switzerland annually. In an average season they spend on railway and steamboat fares £675,000, and in board and lodging £3,800,000. The estimated capital investment is £22,000,000, and the average clear profit £2,475,000, or over 11 per cent. Owing to our isolated position we cannot hope to rival these huge figures, but from the same reason the average visitor stays much longer, and must necessarily expend more. Te Akoha. As I have already reported fully on the condition of the baths and springs at Te Aroha (vide preliminary report on Te Aroha), it is not necessary to do more than recapitulate the main points of that report. As I pointed out, Te Aroha is essentially a spa for drinking the waters, as Rotorua is for bathing. Many of the baths are really excellent of their kind, and a comparatively small expenditure should serve to make Te Aroha thoroughly well equipped in this respect. A still smaller expenditure would supply clean and pretty drinking fountains in place of the existing primitive and unprepossessing pumps.

20

H.-2

Suggestions. 1. To put a drinking-fountain and summer-house over spring No. 15. 2. To put a new drinking-fountain in the Octagon. 3. To alter Bath No. 1 on the lines suggested in my report. At present this favourite bath is useless. 4. To repair "the tunnel," take a vertical ventilating-shaft from its extreme end, and then cautiously prospect for more hot water. Above all, to replace the ridiculously small pipe which carries the water to the baths by one of larger calibre, proteoted from cooling by packing and by diversion of the cold waterfall which now flows over it. 5. To erect a small vapour bath and inhalation-room over the vent from the tunnel. 6. The Cadman Baths: This building urgently needs slight repairs and a coat of paint, or it will speedily deteriorate. Full suggestions in regard to this bath are contained in my report. 7. Better arrangements and facilities are needed for treatment of skin-diseases, as explained in my report. 8. The erection of a large tank for cooled mineral water, on the lines suggested in my report. 9. Bath No. 3 could be made exceedingly useful on the lines laid down in my report. 10. The swimming-bath (cold fresh water) would be an additional attraction to the place, but I would suggest that money should be spent on items 1 to 8 before this work is taken in hand. 11. The alterations at the administrative block of buildings, while eminently desirable, seem to me less urgent than items 1 to 9, so far as the best interests of the spa are concerned. 12. The meteorological stations should be put in order. Hanmek. The baths at Hanmer Hot Springs are clean and well kept, and the whole bathing establishment has evidently been well looked after. While recognising the natural limitations imposed by a comparatively limited water-supply, I think a good deal more might be made of existing materials. It would, at present, be too expensive an undertaking, and indeed it is scarcely necessary, to make Hanmer so thoroughly well equipped as to cater largely for invalids from oversea ; but as there are a large number of people in the South Island who are unable to make the journey to Rotorua, it is necessary, while not attempting luxury of appointments, to fix up Hanmer ii a thoroughly workmanlike manner. The points to which I would draw attention, and the recommendations I would make, are as follows: — 1. The erection of vapour baths and inhalation-room: a suitable building-could be erected at a moderate cost. 2. The construction of Aix-massage baths behind the present tea-house. I gave rough plans for this scheme, which includes the removal and utilisation of the present building over the drink-ing-fountain, and I understand that so far as the building is concerned, matters are completed. The bath, however, was planned on the assumption of a new water-supply which could be utilised to drive the Pelton wheel and pump the mineral water for the douches. As the new water-supply is still under consideration, nothing further has been done in the matter of pumping plant. If the new water scheme is abandoned, I believe we could still work the hydraulic machinery with the existing low-pressure water-power, but this would necessitate a different-sized plant, and would in any case not be so effective. As soon as it has been definitely decided whether or no the watersupply scheme will be proceeded with, the plans for .the Aix-massage bath can be completed. 3. The erection of a summer-house of some pretty inexpensive design, enclosing a drinkingfountain, in place of the present structure. I have a design for a fountain which could be attached to the present pump if necessary, and I enclose a sketch of a suitable building. 4. The formation of a cold-water swimming-bath for use during the hot weather. ."). Better arrangements for the treatment of skin-diseases. At present special baths are reserved for such cases, but I would point out that the word " skin-disease " covers a great variety of cases, some of them infectious and some of them non-infectious. I would advise that a special bath be reserved for each of the two classes of cases; also special towels. To do this with any chance of success necessitates a fairly close medical supervision, and, unfortunately, the great bulk of bathers prefer to take a course of baths without medical advice. Even should they elect to consult a doctor, this is exceedingly difficult at Hanmer. I would point out, therefore, — 6. The advisability of the medical officer residing at Hanmer. 7. Dry massage, electrical treatment, and mechanical vibration would all prove exceedingly useful. I would emphasize the fact, however, that such forms of treatment should be protected from misuse by being given only under medical direction. It would be possible for the masseur and masseuse to alternate their work at the Aix-massage baths and the electric and dry-massage room ; for the present, half a daj' at each would meet all the probable requirements. 8. Among minor alterations at the baths there should be a double door, or some similar contrivance, at the entrance to the ladies' bathing-pool. 9. The present vapour bath should be made safer, as 1 pointed out on a previous occasion, by placing the stove entirely outside the bath. 10. Several reliable thermometers should be provided— e.g., from the stock now being specially prepared for the Department. 11. It would be well to have printed directions to bathers hung in each dressing-room, on lines similar to those at Rotorua. 12. The meteorological instruments should be renewed and regular observations taken. There should certainly be a sunshine-recorder. Hanmer owes its fame almost as much to its bracing climate as to its waters, and a climatological record is most essential.

21

H.—2/

13. It would be advisable to thoroughly investigate the whereabouts of all pipes conveying mineral water, hot and cold, and these should be charted to scale. At present the whereabouts of the pipes, and also their function, is largely a matter of conjecture. 14. It would be advisable to supply a few Pasteur filters, which could be boiled regularly to remove any organic matter and muddy taste from the otherwise excellent drinking-water. 15. At Hanmer there is comparatively little to do in the way of sight-seeing, and the visitor's attention is necessarily somewhat concentrated on the few acres comprised within the Government grounds. It is all the more necessary, therefore, that plenty of amusements should be provided at the Spa. In addition to the bowling, croquet, and tennis lawns already provided, I would suggest the advisability of laying out a quoits-ground and golf-links, and, above all, to provide a band. Even a harp and violin or cornet would really meet nearly all the necessities of the case, and would, of course, be much less expensive than a full band. 16. Increased accommodation is needed at the Spa —more bedrooms, and more comforts for invalids, as well as for tourists. I think the " season " might be indefinitely prolonged if visitors could be assured of warm rooms. The winter climate of Hanmer is often delightful, but no invalid cares to face a cold room at night. I would suggest the erection of more bedrooms with double walls lined with felt, something warmer than linoleum on the floor, and a fireplace in each. Probably the cheapest kind of fire would be an oil-stove with open glazed face, and a chimney to carry off the fumes. Again, the warming of the smoking-room seemed to me unsatisfactor} - ; and the somewhat patriarchal dining arrangements with one long table could be improved upon. 17. I think a system of drainage wholly unnecessary at present if thorough supervision, is maintained over the existing sanitary arrangements. The present septic tank is unsatisfactory and requires remodelling. I think it would be better to remove it to the other site which we inspected at the time of our visit. A regular inspection of the septic tanks outside the Spa is necessary to guard against any fouling of the stream which crosses the road and runs at the back of the Spa grounds. I would also point out that unless a culvert is provided at the spot where this stream crosses the road, the stream is liable to become a cesspool in places. 18. In view of the low-pressure water-supply it would be advisable to have chemical fireextinguishers available, as at Rotorua. 19. Apart from other advantages, the provision of n high-pressure water-supply would greatly facilitate the working of hydraulic machinery for douches, &c. 20. It would be advisable to number the springs for convenience of reference. 21. Conical Hill will some day form an ideal site for Oertel treatment in cases of heart disease. This, of course, requires most careful medical supervision. Shaded seats on the ascent would also be needed. A. S. Wohlmann, Government Balneologist. The Superintendent, Department of Tourist and Health Resorts, Wellington.

APPENDIX 111. REPORT OF RESIDENT MEDICAL OFFICER, TE AROHA. Sir,— Te Aroha, 26th May, 1904. 1 have the honour to submit herewith my annual report for the year ending the 31st March, 1904. The result of the year's transactions has been fairly satisfactory, in spite of the very inclement weather experienced at the beginning of the season, when comparatively few people visited Te A roha. This being the first complete year of the Department's control of the Tc Aroha hot springs, no comparison can be made with the figures of previous years for want of sufficient data. The details of revenue are as follows: — £ s. d. Bath fees ... ... ... ... ... ... 1,020 11 10 Out-patients' fees... ... ... .. ... ... 325 1 0 Players' fees — £ s. d. Bowls .. ... ... ... 29 8 6 Tennis ... ... ... ... 6 10 35 9 6 Library fees ... ... ... ... ... ... 13 16 0 Towel-hire ... ... ... ... ... ... 84 8 2 Miscellaneous ... ... ... .. ... ... 11 12 6 Total ... ... ... ... ... ... £1,490 19 0 The number of baths taken during the year was —public baths, 12,727 : private baths, 27,204: free baths, 399 : total, 40,330. Last year I reserved for the final paragraphs of my report a strong recommendation to prospect for hot mineral water, the want of which, in quantity, is Te Aroha's one weak point. There is every reason to believe that such prospecting would, if systematically carried out, meet with success," and if the quantity of water required was once assured the consequent increased bathing facilities, together with modern appliances, would no doubt be followed by a large increase in the number of visitors to Te Aroha, as well as by an increased revenue. During the year numerous complaints have been made as to the defective condition of No. 1 Bath, the result being that it has been practically deserted. It has not afforded the medical benefit, or the physical pleasure, nor

22

fi.—2

has it earned anything like the revenue it could have done had it been put into a condition sufficient to restore it to its former favour and reputation. 1 understand steps are being taken to have this bath put in order during the off season. I would strongly recommend that this be done without delay, and that prospecting operations be undertaken to secure for the Baths Xos. 2, 4, and 6, as well as the Cadman Baths (in times of great demand), an adequate supply of hot mineral water. Works undertaken during the Year. No. % Bath. —For the further convenience of bathers all the settees in the two lounge-rooms of this building have been freshly cushioned, the passage has been laid with linoleum, curtains have been hung in front of each dressing-box, and in front of the cold shower the floor has been cut and gratings inserted, all of which has tended to brighten this old building and make it more presentable, comfortable, and useful to bathers. No. 6 Bath. —In this bath-house also the floor in front of the shower has been cut and a grating inserted. The Grounds. Bowling-green. —This green has been relevelled, top-dressed, and sown with fresh seed, but owing to not getting in the seed in the autumn, and to imperfect drainage, the grass was too young to hold through the season. The green gave great satisfaction during the early part of the season, but during the latter part it became very bare of grass in patches and far too wet, the water not getting away as freely as it should after a heavy shower of rain. Immediately following a spell of rainy weather last November, a considerable landslip took place on the high bank at the south-eastern corner of the green, seriously damaging the bank and a portion of the iron fence. Estimates have been furnished for removal of slip, and it will be necessary to put the work in hand at an early date. A set of thirty-two lockers has been supplied in the bowling-pavilion for the convenience and use of season-ticket holders, and for the use of which a small annual charge is made. Croquet-lawn and Grass Tennis-court. —At the frequent requests of tennis-players and convalescents for a grass court, the Department has laid down a beautiful grass tennis-court, capable of accommodating simultaneously two sets of players. In conjunction with this work, and to provide still further for the amusement of the public, the Department has made an ample croquetlawn which, as a level playing-ground, will vie for superiority with almost any bowling-green. These works have been ably carried out under the supervision of the Department's Te Aroha head gardener, Mr. Dalton, at the moderate outlay of £90. General. —The Doman grounds hitherto have had to rely largely upon unassisted nature for their beauty, and in consequence there has been a sad lack in variety of colour. In order to remedy this, a long flower-border has been made, running parallel with the street frontage of the Domain property, which will doubtless next season add much to the beauty of the already picturesque grounds, it being the object to make the surroundings of the Domain as pleasing to the eye as its waters are beneficial to the body. The terrace roadway has been still further levelled and given a good layer of sand. The grade of the slopes has been made slightly easier in order to facilitate mowing. At the north-east end of the terrace a good substantial gate has been placed opening on to Koromiko Street, capable of admitting vehicular traffic. When the Borough Council completes the formation and grading of Wilson Street, the terrace will form part of a very pretty circular drive through the grounds. The track leading up to the top of Bald Spur, which was much overgrown, has been cleared and put into fair repair, thus adding largely to the enjoyment of visitors who climb the hill to view the beauties of the surrounding country. Requirements re Staff. The following have been added to the staff during the year: Head gardener, one male and one female bath-attendant. The head gardener has already shown his worth, and I have no doubt that the bath-attendants will in like manner justify their appointment. The staff is not yet up to full strength, as the following requirements still remain: One male and two female bathattendants (permanent), one laundry-maid, one additional garden hand (permanent), and one qualified nurse. I respectfull) submit that the surgical and medical work done during the past year more than warrants the appointment of the last-named official, and 1 feel sure that with her assistance the revenue earned under the heading " Out-patients' fees " would be very considerably increased. Recommendations for the Current Year. A number of the recommendations contained in last year's report have not yet been carried out. I will, therefore, recapitulate them: — (a.) Repairs to cold-water swimming-bath. (&.) Alterations to Domain office buildings. (c.) Improvements to No. 1 Ladies' Bath. (d.) Formation of a vapour bath. (c.) Painting existing buildings. (/.) Formation of douche baths. (g.) Formation of electric and Tallerman baths. (h.) Prospecting for hot mineral water. In addition to the foregoing, I would strongly recomend the folowing as being necessary for the proper equipment of Te Aroha: — (?'.) Springs Nos. 20 and %1. —These springs are situated on the side of <i hill in a somewhat loose inarshv formation. The result is that in wet weather they are always flooded with surface-

23

H.—2

water, which contaminates the spring and renders the water unfit for drinking purposes. For this reason, and also to secure a pure water for purposes of analyses, I would recommend that these two springs be surrounded in such a manner as to protect them from the introduction of any surface-water or other foreign matter. (j.) Fump-room. —ln my report of last year (subsection (c) page 13), recommendations were made for the betterment of the " Octagon " drinking-fountain. Since then, experience has intensified the necessity for a very important and early departure from the present mode of supplying our drinking-waters to the general public, which, to say the least of it, is primitive in the extreme. The present custom is to put an enamelled mug at each spring, but as the mugs were too often carried away, they have latterly been attached to the pump by chains. Even then we frequently find that a mug-handle has been wrenched off. I strongly recommend the Department to completely sweep away the old order of things, and by introducing a new regime, provide a nice bright pump-room, with a bar (attended by a smart maid in the uniform of the Department), at which all the Te Aroha waters and other mineral drinking-waters of New Zealand could be supplied in clean glass tumblers. Owing to the isolated position of the various springs no adequate supervision can be exercised, and in the " Octagon " building numbers of youths congregate, and by their behavious frequently cause great annoyance to visitors. By a scheme such as I have outlined all the drinking-waters would be brought to one centre and be under control, thus making the drinking of our waters far more wholesome and inviting than at present. (k.) Washing Towels. —Under the control of the late Domain Board it was considered sufficient to add to the duties of the bath-attendants that of washing all the towels. This work was done alternately by each of them when off proper bath duty. This condition still obtains, but it may fairly be said to have outgrown itself. The number of baths taken has increased so much that the bath duty alone is sufficient for any one attendant, and what before was of little or no moment is now a grevious burden which is increasing rapidly. I would, therefore, recommend the Department to appoint a suitable laundry-maid to take charge of the work, as is done at Rotorua, or have the towels washed by contract at per dozen. (I.) No. 7 (Sulphur) Bath. —This bath is very old and in a very dilapidated condition. It is seldom used, and only by those suffering from some form of skin-disease and who are forbidden by the regulations to take any of the public baths or the Cadman (private) Baths. In order to keep these latter baths free from use by persons with skin-diseases, the baths set apart for such should, in my opinion, be made as comfortable and inviting as possible, instead of as at present, as dingy and miserable a looking place as one could very well find. At all times those suffering from skin-diseases are naturally reluctant to reveal the fact, and do their utmost to hide it from their neighbours. The temptation then is very strong for those with skin-disease to say nothing about it to the attendants but to seek another bath. If the skin bath was made as inviting as possible, the bather would not have cause for complaint, and no excuse for breaking the regulations. (m.) Attendants' Room in Public Baths. —One result of the year's experience (now that attendants are at the public baths) has brought into prominence one great drawback in the constructure of these buildings —viz., the want of some small room with a fireplace in which the attendants can sit during cold wintry weather while not actually in attendance on bathers. Under present conditions the attendant has the choice of two alternatives, either to remain outside in the cold or keep inside in an atmosphere not particularly warm and saturated with moisture, neither of which is conducive to health, and both of which are the cause of much complaint. Seme such room attached to each of the public baths (Nos. 1, 2, 4, and 6) would prove of great utility, and is, in fact, an absolute necessity during the winter months. (n.) Library. —This very popular institution is sadly in want of a supply of new books. It is now over two years since any were purchased, and then only a dozen or so were bought. The late Domain Board voted £10 annually for the purpose. The revenue for the year averages £14, and this could be greatly increased if the stock of books was regularly added to. The system of management is very defective, but with the present awkwardly arranged building no great improvement can be effected. When the contemplated alterations to the office buildings are carried out a much better system can be introduced. All that we can offer our visitors for winter amusement is an asphalt tennis-court and a climb to the top of the Bald Spur or trig, station ; but in wet weather even these are not available. Consequently we have no place for indoor recreation, such as always forms an important part of the equipment of every hydropathic establishment at Home or on the Continent. A spacious, well-conducted library and reading-room would in some measure supply this deficiency. (o.) Lighting the Grounds. —l hope that the lighting of the baths and grounds, which is very meagre at present, will soon be changed by the advent of the electric light. I have, &c, Ttko. Gγ. Kknny, M.8., Resident Medical Officer. The Superintendent, Department nf Tourist and Health Resorts, Wellington.

H.— 2

24

APPENDIX IV. MOUNT EGMONT: ANNUAL REPORT OF NATIONAL PARK BOARD. In submitting my report this year, I am placed somewhat at a disadvantage, inasmuch as the fine weather prevailing enables the various houses to be kept open for the reception of the public much later than usual, and consequently the data supplied is not as full and concise as I would wish. The year, on the whole, has been a very Busy one, and improvements and additions to roads, tracks, and houses have been expedited to such an extent that next season promises to open under much more favourable conditions, so far as facilities for travel and rest are concerned, than any of its predecessors. The North Egmont House. This house has had its busiest season this summer. The number of visitors to the end of April who signed the Board's visiting-bcok total 1,116. In reviewing the season just closed, it is gratifying to note the large increase in the number of visitors from other parts of New Zealand who have made the trip, not only single individuals but also fairly large parties. The University Summer School students, forty-seven in number, visited the house in January, and, although the weather at the particular time of their advent was not altogether favourable, the majority climbed to 6,000 ft. All who have stayed at the different houses expressly as health resorts, have spoken in high terms of the bracing climate, and as a result of their trip have returned to work invigorated in mind and body. Last winter the experiment of keeping the house open was given a trial. The majority of people have been under the impression that to live there during the winter would be an impossibility owing to the extreme cold. This is far from being the case. Cold it is certainly, but a strengthening and appetising cold which makes one feel that a dinner after an ice-climb is something to look forward to and appreciate. There are some glorious too, when the mountain looks at its best with a mantle of snow right down from the summit, a warm genial sun and not a cloud to be seen; whilst a view of the snow-clad mass in winter on a moonlight night is one of the most magnificent sights conceivable, and one not soon forgotten. The first winter ascent was made by Mr. Mannering (manager of the Union Bank, New Plymouth) and party in July last, the time taken to get to the summit and back being ten hours. The climb, however, at this time of the year is not child's play, and good alpenstocks, ropes, and stout hearts are indispensable ; the wind on some of the slopes is very bitter and fierce. Any intending visitors could get a statement of charges and all particulars- as to how to reach the mountain from Mr. W. J. Shaw, New Plymouth, the local agent of Cook's Tourist Company, and the caretaker, Mr. Duncan, will look well to the creature comforts. Mr. Duncan, I might here mention, is an enthusiastic meteorologist, and has informed me that could he be supplied with the instruments, especially solar and terrestrial radiation glasses, it would give him great pleasure to record and forward to the Meteorological Department a statement of readings. Whilst touching on the North House, I might here mention that many influential men of northern Taranaki have considered that the accommodation is inadequate, and that an up-to-date hostelry should be erected. Strong representations were made to the Board on this matter, but the question of parting with any portion of a national reserve for this purpose is one requiring careful consideration, and the Board did not see its way to grant all the concessions asked for, consequently the matter has fallen through for the present. The West (Rahotu) House. As previously pointed out, this house is at present out of the direct line of tourist traffic so far as Rahotu as a tourist headquarters is concerned, but it is certainly worth including in the itinerary of travel, as a few days' tour down this coast, with its Native and other associations —including Parihaka, one of the most picturesque and well-conducted Native villages in New Zealand —is something worthy of the tourist's attention. But to return to the Rahotu House, the track thereto is easy of access, the house well furnished with mattresses and pillows. A fair supply of cookingutensils and a good paddock for one's horse, enable the visitor to undertake a trip with but very little inconvenience; in fact, last season a semi-invalid lady of sixty walked from the radius-line to the house and back again without any serious amount of exertion or incoiivenience. The number of visitors does not show an increase on last year's total, about a hundred undertaking the trip, but the very best time of the year was practically lost owing to heavy bush-fires in the vicinity and the consequent obscuring of the atmosphere, precluding any good views being taken. Any inquiries can be made from Mr. Kitchingman, of Rahotu, who would be pleased to give to the intending visitor all necessary information. The South House (Dawson's Falls). This very popular resort has again beaten its previous record to the end of April, 1,236 persons having visited the house. In fact, so far as the whole mountain is concerned, everything points to the fact that urgent measures will soon have to be taken to provide larger houses in order to cope with the traffic. Mount Egmont as an asset to the colony is a most valuable one, and ia yearly becoming more appreciated. Mr. Wilkie, of Kaponga, will supply any information to the intending visitor. The East House. This house, which enjoys the distinction of being built at a greater altitude than any of the others, is the one mainly patronised by those who make Stratford their base, To some the situa-

25

H.—2

tion appears bleak, but the records show that three hundred visitors made use of it last season. Any intending tourist can, without much inconvenience, make a trip from Stratford to the Dawson's Falls House, or vice versa. The route is notable for the rough grandeur of its scenery. General. In consequence of certain statements made, the Board engaged a paid Ranger for nine weeks, mainly in the western and south-western portions of the reserves, to detect any breaches of the by-laws. Possibly the evils may have been exaggerated; at any rate, nothing in the shape of vandalism or of trespass in pursuit of game could be detected, although no doubt adjoining settlers either drive cattle in or allow them to stray, causing damage to the undergrowth. lam strongly of opinion, therefore, that an active Ranger is most essential. I have this year had a survey made of the portion of the reserve at Ahuahu, which is leased to the adjacent holders, and I will shortly issue titles therefor. Owing to the eftiuxion of time, in accordance with the provisions of the Act, a new Board was elected this year, and some of the old members who have given valuable assistance since its inception have now bidden farewell to it. To these I must convey my thanks for the valuable help rendered, and I might here state that every praise should be given to members who give time and out-of-pocket expenses in furthering the park's interest, as well as that of the district, and, in fact, of the colony as a whole through one of its natural assets. As I have already mentioned, owing to the late closing of the season, I cannot give the receipts and expenditure as I would have wished, but, generally speaking, everything over expenses is being put into the reserve in the shape of improving the houses and the access thereto. On the various road approaches the Board have been spending any accrued or voted funds in conjunction with and under the supervision of Mr. Murray, District Road Engineer, New Plymouth. The appended statement gives the work in detail, although since the end of the financial year further works have been gone on with. From grants issued direct to the District Road Engineer the following works have been performed: —■ Upper Egmont (Metalling to radius-line). —Under the supervision of the Moa Road Board, a contract for 15f chains metalling was let on the 28th March for the full amount of the grant. Upper Egmont. —On this work the dray-road has been extended from the 2-mile peg to 3 miles 5 chains, and 373 lineal feet of culverts have been constructed where most required from radiusline upwards. The grades from the 2-mile peg have been eased, so that none are now steeper than 1 in 10 (formerly 1 in 8), or less. About a mile still remains to be done to reach the Mountain House. The work is at present being extended by funds provided by the Egmqnt National Park Board. Expenditure, £293 19s. lid. Upper Pembroke. —There has been no expenditure. Dawson's Falls. —Thirty-one chains of dray-road have been formed along a sideling between 2- and 3-mile pegs, and 53 chains of clearing and rough formation have been done from end of dray-road formed last year towards the above-mentioned sideling. There is still a gap of 93 chains to connect these parts; this work is at present being done by funds provided by the Egmont National Park Board. Expenditure, £183. In addition, the undermentioned works have been completed and paid for out of the Board's funds: — Upper Egmont Road. —Clearing, 11 chains; formation, 12 chains; culverts, 11. Expenditure, £40. Dawson's Falls. —Clearing, 29 chains; formation, 29 chains; culverts, 74ft. Expenditure, £110 19s. Bd. During the year two meetings of the National Park Board were held, and the different committees and custodians of the four mountain houses have all worked with great zeal and harmony with the governing statutory Board for the advancement of the great domain, of which we are the common custodians. As, on account of my transfer to Auckland, this will be the last time that I shall have the honour of presenting the annual report, I desire to place on record my high appreciation of the aid and co-operation and never-failing courtesy that I have at all times received from my colleagues on the Board. My special thanks are also due to the Hon. Treasurer, Mr. S. Percy Smith, F.R.G.S., and Mr. G. W. Palmer, our energetic Secretary. In this my last annual report I make my final appeal for assistance in the development of this magnificent colonial asset. I admit that there are many places more wonderful in this country, but here you have direct on the colony's great northern highway a noble mountain that should be within easy distance of all, particularly tourists from abroad. Yet the only access to the different mountain houses is by pack-tracks, and the accommodation is not of a class suited to the tourist, who is always willing to pay. On the plains below, too, there is much to see. From the base of the mountain to the sea the country is rich in historic memories, and studded with ancient Native strongholds and Maori and European battlefields. There certainly is no place in the colony, or perhaps in the world, where there is so much historic interest crowded into so little space as in Taranaki. In the days of old it was peopled by a brave, warlike, and, at the same time, industrious people, and, although our own early settlers had to contend with the remnant only, they found their foeman worthy of their steel. I would ask as my last word that Egmont should have the assistance its accessibility demands, that its forest, flora, and fauna be protected religiously, and that the remaining scenic and historic spots and landmarks in the district be looked upon and conserved as sacred ground for all time. James Mackenzie, Commissioner of Crown Land and Chairman of Board. The Superintendent, Department of Tourist and Health Resorts, Wellington. 4—H. 2.

H.—2

26

APPENDIX V. REPORT ON LITTLE BARRIER ISLAND (NATIVE BIRD RESERVE). Sir, — Auckland Institute, Auckland, 6th June, 1904. In accordance with the request contained in your telegram, I have the honour to forward a report on the Little Barrier Island, prepared by Mr. Shakespear, the resident curator. Mr. Shakespear writes: — " During the last two years there has been a perceptible increase among certain species, and bird-life upon the island is now fairly plentiful. Tuis and bell-birds are present in the greatest numbers, and during the last season several instances occurred of the latter nestling close to the house. The nest of the bell-bird is a very shallow structure, and young birds are often found lying at the foot of the tree under the nest. "The black-headed tit and whitehead are also present in fair numbers, flocks of the latter being met with in different parts of the island. I think that the whitehead has increased more than any other of the scarcer varieties, and this is encouraging as it is now extinct upon the mainland. On the flat around the house, which is in many places covered with high tea-tree, both the whitehead and the tit breed in considerable numbers. " The stitch-bird, which is another species now extinct on the mainland, is increasing here, and we constantly meet with it on the lower slopes of the mountains. Bush-robins are also more plentiful, and are to be met with in most of the deep gullies. At certain seasons of the year pigeons are numerous, and there are always some about on the flat near the house. " The Little Barrier snipe still exist. I have put up single birds on two occasions during the last winter, in both cases on this flat near the house. It is, I think, the rarest bird on the island. A small striped rail also exists, one specimen having been seen. " Both of our cuckoos are constant visitors, the long-tailed species, or koheperoa, doing a good deal of damage to the nests and young birds during the breeding season. " About a month ago a fine specimen of the tuatara lizard was captured. He was secured near the west landing, and after having had his photograph taken was released. I have no doubt that there are plenty of them on the island. " During the year 1903 the Government steamer ' Hinemoa ' on two occasions landed birds on the island. On the first visit she brought three kakapos and one kiwi, and on the last visit a single kakapo. The kakapos were procured through Mr. Henry, of Resolution Island, but it was due to the great care taken of them (during a six-weeks trip) by Captain Bollons and Mr. Pike .that they were landed in such good condition. They were liberated on the higher slopes of the mountain, in open mossy places, and the kiwi in the same locality as the pair sent by Mr. S. Percy Smith some years ago. " There has been no interference with the birds in any way during the year. " Robt. H. Shakespear." It is satisfactory to note that the above report speaks of the increase of several of the birds found on the island, including some species not found on the mainland. There can be little doubt that if a resident curator is maintained on the island, thus preventing the access of collectors, the Little Barrier will long remain a secure refuge for no small part of the avifauna of New Zealand. I have, &c, T. F. Cheeseman, Secretary. The Superintendent, Department of Tourist and Health Resorts, Wellington. Approximate Cost of Paper. —Preparation, not given ; printing (-2,025 copies), .£lB 6s.

By Authority John Mackay, Government Printer, Wellington.—l9o4. Price 9d.]