Untitled

Hokitika Guardian, 11 April 1928, Page 2

I ;n: movement in regard to Haxinilling in South Westland was mentioned at the Council meeting yesterday, when proposals were put forward for a considerable scheme in the Rotokino district. north ot the Wataroa. A second scheme, wo understand, is in hand for the Waiiangi-Okarito areas ■ further ■-nutli. In lath instances considerable expenditure will be involved in any development work which is undertaken. Tiie point at present apparent is that here is one industry which outside capital considers worthy of taking in band. Success in respect to the undertaking means a great deal for the district. as there is a large area of country up end down Westland capable of EOprcdueing flax, and given the mar- j her. the business resulting must be • satisfactory. In the two localities referred to. the finest ion of outlet is of

importance. For the proposition further south, the export would probably be b.v way of Okarito. In that connection the estimated cost of improving the port is given at £21,000. which oT course would make it usable also for the timber trade. The (lax milling proposals are destined to he developed by Australian capital, on behalf oT which some options covering approximately 8,000 acres have been taken. The milled (lax would be taken direct from Okarito to Australia for dressing —so that it. will be seen the movement, is one of very great importance. The Wntaron proposition is being undertaken by Canterbury people, who propose to make their export by road lo the rail-head, another reason for the extension of the railway into South Westland. Tf either or both of these pro,jees materialise they must give a great fillip to the southern district. As indicated, there are other swamp areas capable of reproducing good flax in the district, and La Fontaine may be quoted to another locality nearin' the railway. All this has a. hearing on the potentialities of Westland, and suggest what an important year this is likely lo prove for the place. The situation is the more hopeful because it is understood that those who have visited here in the interests of their principals are extremely well satisfied with the prospects, and had no hesitation in entering into business negotiations for the nun base of areas oT large extent at a fair figure, in terms of the options which have been completed, apparently to the satisfaction of buyer and seller. The outlook generaoy, is therefore very pleasing and altogether gratifying.