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Hokitika Guardian, 3 July 1930, Page 4

Tun propose,o declare a National. Park covering the glacier region and the Westland approach to the Hermitage in South Westland, is a step in tihe right direction.- Thmlfc move in concert w»ch the established National Park at Arthur’s Pass-Otira will bring toe Westland area more definitely within the scope and activities of the Tourist Department, Hitherto despite the great natural attractions of this Westland sea board, the Tourist Department has not extended itself as it might to create the popularity which should attend a district such as this which is so lavishly favoured as it is by natuio, as a unique play-ground for all and sundry. In the short time the Arthur’s Pass National Park has been taken in hand, great have oeen made to develop its attractions, and at the present time even in winter, the Railway Department is conducting regular weekly excursions to the locality. The South Westland National Park to be created, will in duo course become even mere popular than Arthur’s Pass, for the reason that it lias a greater variety ill natural features. The glaciers themselves are unique. There is a more wonderful forest stand on the road to and in the neighbourhood of the Park. The VOgemUm is more tropical and varied. iJiough it laoks direct railway connection, it has an excellent motoring road, which is being improved continuously, Tile climate is less rigorops- than on tire high mountain country, though there are possibilities for higher climbing than at Arthur’s Pass, to say nothing of the round mountain .rips which offer greater variety. Altogether the South Westland Park.has I vondciTul attractions—probably in the J iggrcgnto unsurpassed in the worldand lor that reason is capable of great ind .greater development, ■ As the list rid south is opened up and more videly known, it must draw more and nore visitors, When the Great South ■load penetrates through to Otago and oins up at the Haast Pass, the asset value of the South Park will he more appreciated than ever. Altogether the orop.osal lias much 'to commend it, ■and folk here, familiar with the forest and mountain scenery as they are,

I while perhaps, n’ot appreciating as much as they should, the 'unique possession they have in the remarkable scenic glories of South 'Westland, i'll time will come to appreciate the great and lasting value the South Westland Park will be to the future interests of the district as a whole. It is going to be a lever whereby great results will be accomplished, and all advances of tnat nature will he for the benefit of the whole district.