RECREATION CENTRES IN CAMPS

Dominion, Volume 36, Issue 31, 31 October 1942, Page 6

RECREATION CENTRES IN CAMPS

Increase From 49 To 248 In 12 Months

Twelve months ago the National Patriotic Fund Board was responsible for 49 recreation huts in New Zealand, lhe expansion of the New Zealand I' orces has called for a considerable increase and the number has grown to a present total of 248 recreation centres.

With the exception of seven recreation rooms provided by the Army and tne use of 34 halls, tea-rooms, and other small buildings which have been acquired for the benefit of the troops in some districts, the recreation institutes or huts have been built with funds made available bv the National Patriotic Fund Board. The board’s responsibility does not end with the building of the huts; it is also responsible for the furnishing and maintenance of these rest centres, though they are controlled on its behalf by welfare organizations. All told, in the North and South Islands, 90 large institutions have been buiit in the main camps. In addition 51 large bolted huts, measuring 90ft by 24 ft or larger, are operating; also 40 medium bolted huts, the size of which is 60ft by 24ft., and 26 small bolted huts, which measure 45ft. by 24ft.

The bolted huts are a development which followed the establishment of more eanips and the mobilization of more men. for home defence purposes. They can he erected readily and moved just as expeditiously. In addition, there are the hostels and cafeterias provided in the cities and towns. These are the responsibility of the provincial patriotic councils, but in Wellington, besides the hostels and also elubs operating under the auspices of the pro; vineial council, the Patriotic Fund Board has provided a club for visiting and New Zealand servicemen.