HISTORICAL MOMENTOS

Taupo Times, Volume I, Issue 4, 6 February 1952, Page 1

HISTORICAL MOMENTOS

Sir, — I have been particularly impressed by the historical articles publishecl in your paper. Much of the information given in these was unknown or but imperfectly known to me. In the absence of any published history of this part of New Zealand feuch notes are of great value and I hope they will continue. As a comparative newcomer to Taupo, I have been particularly impressed by the good preservation of the Armed Constabulary redoubt which overlooks the Waikato near the police station. It seems a great pity that this fort, one of the first structures erected in the pakeha settlement of Tapuwaeharuru, should be allowed to disappear under a cover of blackberry and tall grass. The ramparts, the men'" sleeping quarters, and the "cur-

ious littie magazine of pumice stone,J (I quote from a publication of 1889) are still standing. Certainly something should be done t6 make this remnant of Taupo history more readily accessible and visible. I suspect that the land on which the redoubt stands still belongs to the Crown, but I think it is Taupo's responsibility to see that this historic site is treated with the r'espect it deserves. The weeds should be cleared away at least, and perhaps eventually it may be possible, with the help oi sufficient enthusiasm, to restore the redoubt to its original form. — I am, etc.,

"MENTE ET MALLEO."