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Hokitika Guardian, 23 September 1926, Page 2

Thu proposal to extend an imitation to visit South Westland, in connection with the ducal visit to Mew Zealand early in the new year, will he approved generally. The Duke and Duchess of York have become very notable figures in the Homeland, and their presence overseas will call for an expression of loyalty which is sure to he demonstrated in a very hearty manner. The suggestion to include a trip to the Wailio Glacier was ranked as the fifth most interesting sight in New Zealand. Wo would he inclined to place it higher than that seeing that it is said to he the most accessible glacier in the world. A river of solid ice is certainly a novelty, ‘and tho glacier- presents that aspect in an unmistakeable way. The Glacier is set in a ravine with high rock sides, on which ordinary vegetation grows. The setting we should say is unique, making the glacier quite a natural phenomenon. Nor is tile approach to the glacier less singular. The whole motor trip from Hokitika south takes the traveller through a natural bush avenue. It is a journey of surpassing interest, for although it is a forest-clad route, the nature of the forest is always changing'and there is endless variety in the glory of the hush, both in composition and color. Then by the way are the breaks where lakes' and rivers arc passed, affording splendid views of the hack-ground of mountains, all snow-clad and setting up the verdure of tho bush in more striking contrast. Then when the journey ends with tho road, and the traveller walks the short mileage from the road end to the ice itself, there is a wonderful track to traverse, with n wealth and variety of ferns and undergrowth to entrance the eye. There is no doubt the Noyal Visitors would apperciate tho trip greatly from a scenic point of view, for all along the route nature is at her best in a wonderfully varied mood.' The trip would be a change, too, from the ordinary beaten paths of travel, and the novelty of the journey would in itself he a pleasing attraction. Added to the special features of the trip, the opportunity of meeting pioneer settlers in remote places would appeal to the visitors, and the settlers would he delighted to manifest their loyalty to the representatives of Royalty. The tour through Westland would he thus one of mutual satisfaction and great interest.