LAND SETTLEMENT

Hokitika Guardian, 18 October 1933, Page 7

LAND SETTLEMENT

WAIKATO SOCIETY PURCHASE

2000 ACRES AT TE- IvOWHAI

HAMILTON, October 16.

. Another stage in the operations of the Waikato Land Settlement Society was reached last evening, when the directors completed arrangements for the purchase of a further, block of 2000 acres on the western bank of the Waipa River at Te Kovvhai, 121- miles from Hamilton.

The property, which was the site of, a mission station in the early days of New Zealand, consists of 'river flats, .foiling downs, and hills at the back.* There are two homesteads on the block. Much of the land is covered with backberry and gon’se, although a portion vs improved 'and is carrying about 90 dairy cows, 'a few sheep and other siock. An approach rood and a subdividing road {require improvement. The society has nearly completed negotiations for the purchase of another area, of 3000 acres in the Waikato, -and 'when this purchase is finalised, the society will possess nearly 6000 acres which it will immediately m-akc available for improvement and settlement.

The society will concentrate on the development of the three blocks comprising the 6000 acires before making other purchases. A large number of horses has been procured for use in connection with the developmental work, on -which a start is expected to be made this month.

During the last week Mr D. V. Bryant, the honorary manager of the society, has visited Wellington and ha fi interviewed several Ministers' and heads of departments. He was given a very cordial reception and every facility was offered him in connection with his scheme. A .great deal of legal difficulty ha.s been met- nvtih, including the provisions of the Land -Settlement Finance Amendment Act, 1910, which imposes limitations on the aggregation of land. Legislation is being sought this session to e"se the provisions of the Act m favour of the society. During Mr Bryant’s interviews with 'Ministers of the Crown, he was greatly impressed with their earnest desire to promote the welfare of the country.