THE KING KERN.

Hokitika Guardian, 22 June 1927, Page 4

THE KING KERN.

(To the Editor of the Christchurch •• Press Sir.—A few months ago there appeared in vour correspondence eoluuins some fetters referring to the large ••Kino ” fern growing at Lake lanthe, near the main road from Hokitika to Eraik Josef Glacier. I have admiredthis fern for many years, hut when t saw it last month it seemed doomed to destruction. The roadmen, after digging for shingle deep into the bank on the south side of this fern, had transferred their attention to the north side, and had dug in even deeper there and well against the tree. One day as T passed they had a small fire burning there, evidently to boil the |

"billy.” I understand that these ferns have practically only surface roots, so considerable damage must have been done.

I was m formed that during last year a party returning from Hnrihnri to Hokitika halted at the fern and from the roof of their conveyance had been able to reach up and tear down many fronds. 1 mentioned the matter in Hokitika, and I trust that something has been done to save this noble specimen oi* New Zealand fern Ironv destruction. —Yours, etc., CTTAS. BUCHANAN. Christchurch. June 20th. [No doubt the authorities controlling the Main South Road will assist in protecting tlm notable fern near Lake lanthe.]