YOUTH HOSTEL WANTED IN TAUPO

Taupo Times, Volume III, Issue 134, 20 August 1954, Page 5

YOUTH HOSTEL WANTED IN TAUPO

ONE ALREADY AT MOTUOAPA At its recent meeting the Borough Council had before it a letter from thq secretary of the Wellington Branch of the Youth Hostels Associotion of N.Z. (Inc.), stating that it was hoped to plan the establishment of a hostel in or near Taupo and asking for any help the Council might be able to give. The Youth Hostel movement started in 1911 and there are now Associations in some 27 countries, which are non-profit making bodies aiming to help young people to a greater knowledge, love and care for the countryside. Chains of hostels have been established all over the world, ranging from old farmhouses to modern and specially deI signed buildings. Inexpensive overnight accommodation is provided, usually dormitories with beds and | mattresses, and washing, cooking and recreational facilities. The New Zealand Youth Hostel Association was formed in 1952 and there are now several chains of hostels in Canterbury, Vvestland, and near Wellington, and one smali hostel at Motuoapa Bay, on the eastern shore of Lake Taupo. In discussion, Cr Currie mentioned his experience of such hostels in Italy, and Cr Swan spoke1 of their importancei in England and on the Continent and said that the establishment of one in or near Taupo would be of benefit to Taupo, by interesting people in the district, in addition to its value to the young people using it.

Cr Young though that the matter could be handled by the Businessmen's Association and Ratepayers' Association, who could perhaps supply the Association with local information which might lead to their acquiring a site for a hostel, or having one given them as had been the case at Motuoapa Bay. It was decided to advise the Association accordingly.