SERVICES HOSTEL

Dominion, Volume 35, Issue 284, 29 August 1942, Page 6

SERVICES HOSTEL

New Accommodation In Wellington CAFETERIA AND SLEEPING QUARTERS The new Combined Services Hostel set up under the auspices of the Metropolitan and Provincial Patriotic Committees in Wellington is now in use, but so far servicemen, who are on leave during the week, have not found their way to it in any considerable number. The hostel occupies the whole of a large three-story building on the corner of Dixon and Sturdee Streets, only a short walk from central Manners Street via Herbert Street. Possibly its chief amenity is the large sunny cafeteria, which occupies practically the whole of the ground floor, and could provide seating accommodation for perhaps 200 men at a time. This room, decorated in cream and green, with cream ducoed table-tops and a stained wooden floor, catches and holds the morning sun when the weather permits, and is a distinctly cheerful place. The serving counter extends across three-parts of the room at the southern end, The cost of food and drinks is announced on large posters on the walls, so that patrons know exactly where they stand. These charges are most reasonable. For instance, a hot pie can be purchased for 3d., saveloy and potatoes for 6d.; soup for 3d.; glass of milk for 2d. . , The undivided section of the room nearest Dixon Street is fitted up as a lounge and writing-room, Here are tables, pens, ink, paper, and envelopes, all provided gratis. Here also may be found a corner for a quiet read. Originally tho first floor was to have been a reception room, but such is tlie demand for sleeping accommodation by men on leave that tho hostel has been forced to forgo thpt amenity, and use both first and second floors as dormitories. These floors are being supplied with strong bunks, with splendid mat tresses, rigged close Io one another in Hues. At present, there are only 66 bunks available, hut when tho second floor is ready (it is still in the hands of tlie builders) there will be 250 bunks in all. There are 14 hot showers (no plunge baths) and a special section of each floor is fitted with mirrors and metal mugs for shaving purposes. A charge of- 2/- a night is made for sleeping accommodation. Army fatigues, and some honorary girl aides keep the place in order, under the direction of the matron, Mrs. East.