The Waipukurau Press. Friday, January 5, 1906. WAIPUKURAU.

Waipukurau Press, Issue 4, 5 January 1906, Page 2

The Waipukurau Press. Friday, January 5, 1906. WAIPUKURAU.

—o — A feature about the “model village” that the new-comer observes is the uniformity of its dwellings. There aae very few small houses or

huts. Nearly ail the residences are of a fair size, and convenience is a strong point. We do not make these remarks merely for the sake of having something to say about the town ; but having travelled about a little, the fact is very noticeable to us. Perhaps being in comparatively close proximity to many of the Hawke’s Bay sawmills, and most of the buildings having been erected in the palmy days of those institutions, may in a measure account for substantial hvuses existing. A few years ago timber was much cheaper than now, and a building could be put up for a least a one third less cost than at the present time. Owing to the dearness of timber, pe.sons who build in new towns are compelled lo be content with smaller houses—unless they have ample means. The well-kept gardens, lawns and surroundings of the Waipukurau residential quarters are also worthy of note. There arc some ideal homes here. A salubrious climate, a nice home in a pleasant locality, and enough to eat and drink—what more could mortal wish ! The main street of the town, however, is not at all in keeping with suburbia. It is no “ model.” If there be any resident who believes that Ruataniwha road through the town is a perfect thoroughfare, we venture to submit that he is—well, wrong. This road seems to be as neglected as a teuth step-child. Years ago the county council controlled and kept in repair this highway. Then the road board took charge, until an inquisitive auditor discovered that the board was spending money illegally in maintenance. And he is supposed to know. Of late the road has been only cared for in a half-hearted manner. Presently the town board will be on the job ; and citizens are sanguine that something tangible will be done.