BACK BLOCKS LOCAL BODIES.

King Country Chronicle, Volume VI, Issue 502, 21 September 1912, Page 4

BACK BLOCKS LOCAL BODIES.

The conference of baekbloeka local bodies to be held at Te Kuiti on Wednesday next bids fair to mark an important ep«ch in the history of this portion of the Dominion. "Unity is strength" and the axiom could not be more fittingly applied than in respect to the union of local governing bodies which are operating under common conditions in various parts of the North Island. The geographical features of the island do not permit of the whole of tho back block counties readily joining in conference, but the principle could be applied in various districts to widespread advantage. There iB ample work ahead of any such association of local bodies, and it cannot be doubted the deliberations of such a body will carry immense weight, and operate for tho benelit of all the districts represented. Tho very fact that a definite and satisfactory policy in connection with the j roading system of the country does not exist, indicates in no uncertain manner the necessity for the careful consideration of such an important question by the local representatives of those districts in which new settlement is being promoted. The subject is one upon which much might he said, and no doubt it will early jg the medium of strong representations

on the part of the association. Practically all the districts interested are also more or less affected in respect to roading and other matters by tho existence of native-owned lands in their respective districts, and this alone is sufficient to form the basis of much important and enlightening discussion. Wo are, moreover, confronted with an important; change in the administration of the affairs of the Dominion, and the necessity of having the needs of the bade blocks sympathetically and intelligently considered cannot bo ov«r estimated. The As-

sociation is deserving of the unreserved support of all who have the interests of new district:! at; heart, and the promoters of tho association are deserving of commendation for their efforts in tho public interest. We trust the efforts of the delegates will be productive of tho full measuro of benefit which should undoubtedly result. A great opportunity lies before the association, and by the adoption of a strong and progressive policy, tempered by breadth of outlook and a recognition of the best interests of the Dominion as a whole much may be accomplished.