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Hokitika Guardian, 10 May 1927, Page 2

The attractions of the Otira Gorge as a beauty spot arc still an undisputed factor in drawing people fo Westland. The scenic wonders of the Coast are due to receive greater and greater attention from the outside world. Being a natural wonderland Westland must command always the addition of travellers. The provision of the through railway lias done a great deni in creating an enlarged volume of traffic to ami from the Coast. The special excursions have been well patronised since their inception. The Otira Gorge excursions in particular are all wen patronised, and little wonder, for it is a scenic wonder of world wide renown. Some notes on a recent motortrip through the Gorge are printed today, and the story recalls many familiar scenes and sights which are lost to view to the majority of the travellers, who pass through the tunnel. But to those who make the trip “over tlie Hill” the journey across the Divide between Canterbury and Westland is an experience of great interest and entertainment. It is good to know that the highway is being so well maintained. That policy, wc hope, will lie continued. The road itself is a natural asset affording access and a viewpoint for one of (lie chief glories not alone of Westland, hut also of New

Zealand. So attractive a portal to tin's western .seaboard is indeed worth maintaining well. Just now, too. the authorities have organised winter excursions at very cheap rates from all parts of New Zealand to Waiho Gorge where visitors many enjoy the peculiarly rare features of the Franz Josef Glacier. These trips as they become wider known are sure to attract more and more patronage. There is no fairer motor trip in New Zealand than that into South Westland, and as knowledge to this effect- spreads, residents from all parts are sure to become interested in the fare their own country ca'.n. provide. Incidentally, it would he possible for those doing the South Westland trip to take on the Otira Gorge en route, and so add greatly to their pleasure in so doing. There is every justification to believe in the steady growth of tourist and holiday traffic to Westland.