H—2

Three hundred feet of cold-water main was replaced and re-connected to the borough supply. The Domain reservoir was cleaned and water pressure for fire-hydrants has been improved considerably. Reboring of the Mokena Geyser was carried out, with beneficial results to the hot mineral-water supply. (c) Buildings and Installations A refreshment-stall has been established and leased. A site has been prepared for a croquet-pavilion, and when this building has been constructed quarters will be available in the old pavilion for the tennis club. Repairs were carried out in the Cadman Bath Building, which was partly rewired. The massage-rooms and facilities were brought up to date. (d) Baths and Treatments The number of baths taken increased by 20 per cent, to 31,587. During the six months that the restored No. 1 Ladies' Hot Bath was open it was availed of on 2,124 occasions. The cold swimming-bath was also well patronized during the summer months. A qualified physio-therapist established his practice in leased premises, and massage and special treatments that include short-wave, ray, and heat therapy are now available at this spa. (e) General Various improvements in access and accommodation at Te Aroha have been made for the convenience of visitors. The jubilee of Te Aroha last year resulted in an increased number of visitors, and served to focus, popular attention upon this tourist resort. (iv) MORERE HOT SPRINGS This thermal health resort continues to enjoy popular patronage. The swimmingpool and various baths were availed of by visitors on more than 18,000 occasions. The reserve has been maintained in excellent order, the natural attractions of the area have been preserved, and the services for the visitor have been well conducted. Constant vigilance and energetic measures by the Caretaker and the co-operative neighbouring landholders have minimized the damage by deer and goats, but, unfortunately, opossums are becoming a serious menace to the splendid natural forest that is an outstanding feature of this reserve. Maintenance of baths and buildings has been carried out and some renewal of boundary fences is in progress. Improvements have been made to the Manager's cottage and repairs to the footbridge have been effected. (v) QUEENSTOWN (a) The Peninsula Domain Late snows and frosts persisting into December retarded growth and floral displays in the Department's gardens, but as soon as summer conditions prevailed the plots and boarders were a source of pleasure to the many visitors to the Domain. All playing-areas were in good condition and were kept to an excellent standard. Both bowling-greens were " plugged " and top-dressed. Perfect surfaces resulted. The tennis-courts were treated and likewise gave good service to players. Proposals to lay down an additional bowling-green have not been proceeded with owing to shortage of labour. It is proposed to extend the Tea Kiosk building and thus provide more space for catering for visitors and also additional locker space for players.

12