VISITOR’S IMPRESSIONS

Wairarapa Times-Age, 29 April 1938, Page 5

VISITOR’S IMPRESSIONS

TRIP THROUGH WAIRARAPA. (To the Editor.) Sir,—During my peregrinations in New Zealand, I have seen many places of interest, and I should like to give a few of my impressions of the Wairarapa. The first part of my journey from Wellington to Cross Creek was not exhiliarating. The tug-thud of the engine to the Summit was somewhat monotonous. However, it gave one an opportunity to study the topography of the beautiful mountain scenery, and homesteads in the various valleys. Apropos of this, may I say that, if it were possible to make a scientific deviation of the line it would be much appreciated by train passengers, and probably be of pecuniary advantage to the Railways Department. During my trip through the Wairarapa I was impressed with what appears to be splendid arable and grazing lands, which exceed in fertility much of the lands which I have seen in Australia. There appear to be hundreds of acres of stumps, memorials to the fallen veterans of the indigenous forest. I am impressed with the beautiful town of Masterton, which I understand, is the principal town in the Wairarapa. I wish to commend the civic administrators upon their achievements. It must be obvious to the studious observer that the geographical position of the town is excellent. The clean streets, the architecture, the open spaces for recreation etc., are a credit to the people. I inspected the Topiary Gardens at Eketahuna. This should not be missed by visitors. A green sward, on an easy gradient runs to the road. On approaching the entrance one is immediately impressed with the lifelike imitations of animals, birds, furniture, and other artistic work, from a chicken to an elephant. In fact they are too numerous to_ mention. This amazing exhibition is designed and executed by the proprietor, Mr Cooper, from growing exotic shrubs. Pahiatua appears to be a good place for the dairy farmer. The township is very pleasing, with its splendid square, three chains wide, modern shops and residences. The Botanical Gardens are a credit to the ■people. If the railway was adjacent to the town it would be much appreciated by the town dwellers and visitors alike. It must be obvious to those who move about among the farmers of New Zealand, that they (the farmers) are the backbone of the country. Their life throughout 365 days of the year is unenviable, and they are entitled to every penny of their income, which in many cases is inadequate. In conclusion, I wish to felicitate the people of Masterton, and the people of the Wairarapa Upon their splendid achievements.—l am, etc., W. V. WILSON.