HUNTING.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LV, Issue 287, 26 April 1913, Page 7

HUNTING.

. . <» NORTH TARANAKI HOUNDS. There was splendid weather and a good attendance of members at the meet of the North Taranaki Hunt, which took place at M. T. Luxton's farm, Waitara, on Thursday. There was a very good muster of members. Before throwing off, a number of those present partook of the hospitality of Mr. and Mr.?. Luxton, who had prepared a light lunch. Shortly after one o'clock the pack threw-off in somewhat swampy ground near the banks of the Waitara river, and after working unsuccessfully for half an hour the hounds made for the higher ground, and before many minutes had elapsed they were in hot pursuit of a bunny. The run was short and choppy, however, and no kill resulted, pussy gaining cover. There were several other short runs, and on several occasions the hares only just managed to evade the hounds at the critical moment. It was just about, four o'clock when the pack got on the scent of a strong old hare, who led the chase for nearly seven miles over good country, and several stiff fences had to be negotiated. Eventually a kill was registered. Tbe hounds worked admirably, and although the horses were jumping well the country proved too severe for the majority of them, and there were only about six in at the death. The Hunt subsequently adjourned to the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Matthews, where afternoon tea was served. Before leaving, Mr. A. H. Halcombe (master) thanked Mr. and Mrs. Matthews and Mr. and .Mrs. Luxton for their hospitality and the various property-owners for allowing the use of their properties. The next meeting will take place at Mr. R. Clcmow's, Omata.