AN ISLAND KINGDOM.

Rangitikei Advocate and Manawatu Argus, Volume XXXIII, Issue 9068, 7 February 1908, Page 7

AN ISLAND KINGDOM.

The following description was written some time ago concerning Motutapu, the island owned by Mr Jas. Reid, who died recently:— The Motutapu Island, the name of which, in the Maori language, means “sacred island,” is situated in the Hauraki Gulf, within a few miles of Auckland; it is one of the most lovely of the many beautiful islands which dot the seascape, and add much attraction to the Auckland harbour. It comprises 3700 acres of the most fertile soil, and is indented with bays, accessible at all states of the tide. The best known of them is Home Bay, which possesses a fine jetty, at which steamers of large size can lie in perfect*safety in all weathers. Motutapu is a perfect paradise to the lovers of sport, as it abounds with fallow deer, wallabies, emus, buffaloes, laud birds, and water fowl, dear to the sportsman’s heart. The island possesses au exquisite climate, seldom disturbed by boisterous winds or other elemental roysterers. In addition to the large number of game it carries for its owner, Motutapu depastures between 4000 and 5000 sheep, 800 head of well-bred cattle, and about 50 horses, and these are all eagerly sought after by buyers. Communication with Auckland is most convenient, as steamboats ply several times a week between the city and the island. Motutapu was originally purchased by the late Mr Robert Graham, who, in 1869, disposed of his interest of several hundred acres to Messrs Reid Bros., and the remaining portion was purchased at the same time from the Messrs Maxwell Bros., who were part owners. This island was then in its native state, but the energy of Messrs Reid Bros, soon converted the tea-tree and scrub-covered hills to a fertile pastoral paradise.