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Hokitika Guardian, 26 January 1929, Page 4

Wjtii Sir Joseph Will'd returned in the charge of lli(> Tourist Department, in 1 ' which Department ho was originally tlio i'omulor and was responsible for I lie Rollers I activities which brought the scenic att met ions so- mneli to the loro, more will he expected of tlx? Department. The Tourist Department lias heroine overshadowed of late by both the Hallway and Publicity Departments in the matter of working up interest in the scenic attractions, while whatever activities the Tourist Depirlment had in tin 1 direction dl open inn up routes, lias been swallowed up almost completely by the Public Works Department. 'Flu* Tour si Department, except inn as a hooking dlfiee, has been largely a fifth wheel to the administrative coach, and its duties in that respect could just as well be carried out by the booking office of the railway service. However, the usefulness or the Tourist Department in former days was so marked, that if it be possible to ,

revive that past, a groat service can i. done, and wc shall expect West hum to benefit from the change. Here ii. are great natural ifoaLuros which need no artificial aid to bring out their special attentions. They are nature unadorned at its best. Rut what is required are more publicity and improved facilities to reach the beauty spots. Another matter in need of attention is a revision- of the booking scheme. It is the practice to boo it tourists through the country completely ••on the rush,” a night, a day there, and then on connecting up with train, motor or boat, as though everything depended oil speed. -'lore leisurely nips should be organised. There is room for more extended stops in West mud where the natural wonders to Inseen and the pristine beauties to bo enjoyed, are so novel and unique, that tourists who iind themselves scheduled for the quick trips, pass on I nil ol regret that their stay has been cut so short. Hie Tourist Department requires a reminder on this point, and the need for .some, consideration lor the travellers. A holiday trip is marred very often by rush tactics, and if the now -Minister can afford the time to go into tins aspect of tin* Department’s activities, much general good will result. Ihe pleasure and satisfaction teit at Sir Joseph Ward taking up this branch o' the government ol tin* country will be heightened considerably il the IVparlun ill’s organisation is overhauled on I lie lines hero referred to.