Throngs Visit Tongariro to See Chateau

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 810, 2 November 1929, Page 1

Throngs Visit Tongariro to See Chateau

Magnificent Building to be Opened on Monday WALLED IN BY PEAKS

(TUB SUN’S Special Representative) THE CHATEAU, Today.

A palatial Georgian building in a delightful setting, backed and flanked by peaks of an amazing grandeur, Chateau Tongariro made a magnificent picture in today’s sunlight and those who have gathered in the scenic heart of the North Island for the opening festivities are lost in astonishment that such a completely modern hotel and such splendid appointments could have been designed and carried into execution in so short a time. STRIKING FEATURE

Probably the most striking feature of the Chateau is its enormous lounge, 6,000 square feet and richly carpeted, in the centre of which is a parquet dance floor. From the picturesque window of giant proportions a superb view of stately Ngaruahoe and Tongariro unfolds itself, a view unsurpassed outside Switzerland Uself. Further along, the snow-clad slopes of Ruapehu exercise their Lorelei call on the skier. Here today many of the visitors are having their first taste of the delight of winter sports. OFFICIAL OPENING The official opening ceremony takes place on Monday afternoon, when Mr. J. B. Thompson, chairman of the Park Board, who has done much toward the realisation of the present successful venture, will be the central figure. The Hon. J. B. Donald will be present and the Rt. Hon. J. G. Coates is expected to pay a flying visit on Monday, while the Hon. A. J. Stallworthy, Mr. H. E. Holland, Leader of the Labour Party, and the Hon. P. A. de la Perrelle may attend if their Parliamentary duties permit. On Monday evening the official dinner will be held.

Last week-end more than 400 guests were catered for from the Chateau’s baronial kitchen, and another influx is expected today.