AIRPORT FOR AUCKLAND

Sun (Auckland), Volume IV, Issue 937, 2 April 1930, Page 7

AIRPORT FOR AUCKLAND

OTAHUHU TROTTING CLUB’S GROUND NOT FAVOURED BY MINISTER Following a recommendation from the Papatoetoe Town Board to the Minister of Defence, that the Otahuhu Trotting Club’s property be purchased for the purpose of providing an airport; for Auckland, a letter was received at last evening’s meeting of the Papatoetoe Town Board from the Minister. The Minister said that the property had been inspected, and reports indicated that the ground was suitable for an airdrome, provided certain v'ires were removed, and also one or two other obstacles belonging to the Railway Department. At the same time, it was pointed out that the grounds at present being considered by the Auckland City Council had the advantage of being near the sea, where they could be used in conjunction with a station for flying-boats and seaplanes. The Minister added that in the event of the Otahuhu Trotting Club’s ground being used, he foresaw numerous complaints from the residents near the ground, and he would rather leave the selection of a suitable ground to the authorities in Auckland. On the recommendation of Mr. W. J. Nicholson, the clerk was instructed to forward a copy of the letter to the secretary of the Papatoetoe Welfare League.