PROPOSED FRIENDLY SOCIETIES’ GARDEN.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 5453, 18 September 1878, Page 2

PROPOSED FRIENDLY SOCIETIES’ GARDEN.

A deputation waited on the Hon. Mr. Stout yesterday morning for the purpose of obtaining a grant of land from the Government, close to Wellington, for a friendly societies' garden. The deputation consisted of the following gentlemen ‘.--Messrs. Duncan, Cameron, H. F. Fraser, G. W. Firmin, J. Webber, and J. Coogau. Mr. Stout, after the deputation had ‘explained their object, said that he would make inquiries at the Land Office in order to ascertain whether there was any land close to the city that would be suitable for the purpose. If there was a place the land might be set aside for recreation purposes, but it could not be devoted exclusively for the benefit of the friendly societies without a special Act of Parliament.- In Dunedin the friendly societies possessed a piece of ground, but it was made over to them by an ordinance of the Provincial Government. Mr. Stout asked, supposing a'piece of ground were found, and that the Government consented to vest it in the friendly societies, would those bodies work together 1 Mr. Fikmis answered that they would. The deputation represented all the registered friendly societies in town. It was thought that the Mount Cook reserve would be an eligible site. Sir. Stout said that he was of opinion Parliament would not grant it for the purpose. It was a pity that the city did not purchase the Lowry Bay reserve, which would have made an excellent recreation ground. Mr. FmirS suggested that any piece of land between the city and the Hutfc would answer the purpose. Mr. Stout said he would make inquiries, aud would let the deputation know whether •there was a suitable piece of ground obtainable. The deputation then thanked the Hon. Mr. Stout, aud withdrew.