SOUTH WESTLAND NOTES

Hokitika Guardian, 27 February 1932, Page 2

SOUTH WESTLAND NOTES

The reports from most quarters indicate that bird-life in the southern localities is well maintained. In the high country the* playful and mischeviou.s Kea abounds, and mountaineers encounter many of the birds. Tire Weka ■is also fairly numerous. Nature pigeons are "in plenty along the road, and are very generally respected. Small birds are said to bo on .the increase, although •weasels are reported to be well distributed up and down the Coast. Very general praise i.s passed by •visitors at the condition of the roads. The .surface is invariably good, and motoring i.s a pleasure. In the course of the*, improvement n-ow baing carried tout, .many open crossings are being •piped. Concrete pipes are now being made by Public Works workmen, and the supply will be utilised for further improvements. The pipes being made locally, while providing work in the district parts, also saves 'the cost of transport from more distant parts. A very strong class of pipe, is being manufactured. The drowning fatality at Three Mile creek near Okarito, emphasises the necessity for the bridge it is proposed to •erect at that crossing. The first structure designed was not consiuered aueppiate for ihe traffic, and there has been (delay in preparing plans tor a substitute structure. These, however, j more than absorb tin vote available. : The design will require modification, ! tud as soon pel this is approved, it is I .hoped to proceed with the erection.