WORK COMMENCED

Rotorua Morning Post, Volume 2, Issue 593, 26 July 1933, Page 6

WORK COMMENCED

WAIOTAPU RESERVE AREA TO BE PREPARED FOR COMING SEASON TOURIST POSSIBILITIES Arrahgements necessary for the opening up of the Waiotapu thermal reserve as an important -part of the attractions of the distpict are now being undertaken by the Tourist Department, early progress indicating that the reserve will be in fit state for the inspection of visitors in time for the coming tourist season. Almost immediately work will be commenced in providing suitable tracks throughout the reserve and at necessary points these tracks will be signposted, particuilarly at dangerous places and where descriptions of interesting features of the reserve are necessary. Seats will also be provided for the convenience of visitors at various vantage spots. As has ibeen mentioned in the "Post" on previous occasions, it is surprising that the possibilities of this reserve as one of the most attractive tourist spots in the district have been negleeted for so many years, and now that steps have been taken to bring it once again into prominence it should quickly become one of the most popular siights in the district. Wonderful jRegion Situated, as it is, about a mile from the main Rotorua-Taupo highway, few wh'o have travelled over this road have had any knowledge of the remarkable variety of its sights, while others who have ventured ailong its uncared for tracks, have been well rswarded for their efforts. Here they have been met by a variety of sights which are probably unsurpassed in any of the district's thermal regions which are more extensively advertised. The Lady Knox geyser, the Echo Lake, with its beautiful overhanging cliffs, the champagne cauldron which is unique for its unusual formation and the beautiful terrace formations are only a few of the sights which have for many years been denied the tourist to the district. However it is hoped that with the action being taken to develop the area, it will shortly be one of the most popuilar half-day trips from Rotorua, from which it is separated by only 18 miles of excellent roadway and within a mile of a comfortable hotel.