THE COST OF KAURI.

King Country Chronicle, Volume V, Issue 325, 4 January 1911, Page 6

THE COST OF KAURI.

The announcement that the price of kauri has been raised two shillings per hundred feet has naturally caused a flutter in the North, saya the "Taihapo Time?," but it will have little, if any, affect on builling in our own district, where rimu and kahikatea are mostly in vogue. At the same time it points to the inevitable effect caused by the cutting out of easily accessible timber. The additional" cost of haulage has to be met and grows heavier year by year, and it now appears that the amount of waste has become very much greater. In addition to this recent conciliation awards have increased the wages, and this co3t falh back on the public, while shipping rates and wharfage have also been materially increased. It seems probable that before long the cost of building will be further enhanced by increased wages of carpenters, so that the outlook in the north is by no means favourable for those of limited income. As a matter of fact the chief factor in the affair is that the demand exceeds the supply, the export trade having grown to very large dimensions. Apparently the time is not far distant when kauri will be as scarce as the huia bird, and then, with the continual rise in wages, the cost of house rent will be almost prohibitive, unless greater use is made of concrete. There is a good revival in the building trade throughout the Dominion, and while times are good, increased cost of living can be met. Far-sighted people are nor.e too enthusiastic, however, over the outlook, but it is no use anticipating trouble. Economy and thrift are what is badlyneeded.