“HOLLY LEA” RESIDENCE

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXVII, Issue 8352, 12 February 1913, Page 5

“HOLLY LEA” RESIDENCE

Press Association. CHRISTCHURCH. February 11. The Maj'or of Christchurch, Mr Holland, returned from Wellington to-day, and was approached by a reporter on the subject of “Holly Lea,” the big property of the Board of Governors ot the McLean Institute, in Manchester street, being utilised as a residence for the Governor. This proposal, said the Mayor, had roused a storm of protest in Wellington. The matter had not been officially before the board, but as chairman of the institute he was bound to say that they would be very pleased to offer the property to the Government for the purpose. He suggested they would do this at a very reasonable price, and would also accept Government bonds s.n lieu of cash. He thought very strong agitation should be got up in Christchurch in favour of the proposal. Looking at it from any point of view, it was only fair that a Government House should lie provided for the South Island, especially as the North Island already had two. “Holly Lea” was an ideal property, and the place was ready for immediate occupation. There was a unique conservatory, growing ripe bananas and pineapples at the present time. The place was quite equal to the Governor’s residence in Wellington or in Auckland. He thought that a movement in the direction of offering it to the Government for the purpose mentioned should not come from the board, but from the citizens.