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Some girls at Hepburn Street hostel. who once lived in these homes were devout churchmen and pioneers in industry and commerce who laid the foundations for modern enterprise and progress. The rooms are spacious and airy and are equipped with the comforts and amenities to suit modern requirements. The activities of the hostels are designed to suit all needs. Parents can rest assured that regulations regarding hours of attendance and general conduct are rigorously enforced. But the happy atmosphere which prevails indicates that these are not unreasonable requirements. There are plenty of trips away in leisure hours—picnics, camps, and visits to other institutions. The way the boarders enter into the cultural life of the hostel is an inspiration. Concerts produce a wealth of variety and talent while Maori culture adds a distinctive note which is healthy, satisfying, and appealing to visitors. Tea at the hostel is something to remember. Here the family and community spirit is demonstrated in a way which is a worthy example to outsiders. Friends and visitors are welcome at all times and an unannounced arrival never finds the hostel unprepared. It would be unrealistic in an outline of the services which the hostels provide to omit the important question of payment. The rates of board Sister Jessie, matron at Hepburn Street. range from £2/10/- to £3 a week but they are adjusted according to the wages which each person earns. The mission depends almost entirely on this income to maintain its hostels. Unless they are patronised to the full, there is a grave danger of them closing their doors and the Maori people being deprived of facilities which contribute so much to their social, educational and vocational welfare. There is no more earnest worker for the mission and, through it, for the Maori people than the secretary, Mr L. E. Buckley. He is modest about his achievements, and stresses what others are doing to keep the hostels going. “There are people”, he says, “who are making great sacrifices for the sake of the spiritual life At Shelly Beach hostel, the photographer was struck by the cosy, happy atmosphere in which the girls live.

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