THE FINEST VIEW

New Zealand Listener, Volume 19, Issue 471, 2 July 1948, Page 5

THE FINEST VIEW

Sir-Thank you for A.M.’s appealing atticle dealing with New Zealand’s finest views. It was an inspiring reminder to all New Zealanders of the rich store of beauty that surrounds us in this country. How often do we forget to "lift our eyes to the hills" to behold the loveliness there? The finest view? Who can say? Each one of us cherishes some sight, some spot above others-. . . . the Waikato reflecting spring-green trees along her banks; Cambridge town aflame with autumn fire; the hills encircling Taupo lit by the radiance of a stormy sunset; the incredible blueness of Lake Hawea; the magnificence of the Southern Alps from the air and the vivid colours that splash the plains and mountains in late afternoon on the road from Christchurch to Hanmer. It’s all a matter of mood, says A.M.-the mood of the beholder as well as the mood of the .weather, Both are important. For instance, when this writer saw Queenstown for the first time

it was swathed in rain and mist-dismal, dreary, grey. Yet it has been said that on a fine, clear day this is one of the finest views in New Zealand. He who wakes to the sight of Mt. Egmont each morning of his life would not see the same beauty in the sharp cone thrusting up into the clouds as a casual visitor. For him the sea beating in wild freedom against black rocks at Piha would provide a finer view; while he who dwells in sight of the sea longs for a glimpse of the mountain heights. So, too, it is a matter of contrast and constant longing for that which lies beyond. Thus we can argue back and forth, South and North, each with his own cherished spots, each’ with his favourite view. May we add, each year, each day, to our precious store and never lose sight of the fact that our’s is a rich and noble heritage of which we should

be proud.

NOELLE

MACDONALD

(Auckland). --_---