HON. J. CARROLLAND PARTY

Gisborne Times, Volume XXIX, Issue 3148, 18 February 1911, Page 7

HON. J. CARROLLAND PARTY

VISITING NiQTU AND BACKBLGCKS.

UNIQUE EXPERIENCE AT OTOKO.

SIGNS OF ACTIVITY ON EVERY

HAND

[Special to Times.)

MOTU, last night. What promises to be a very enjoyable torn* of the Motu and backblocks was commenced from Gisborne by the Hon. J. Carroll (Native Minister) and a small party yesterday morning. Prior to the departure of the train some anxiety was felt as to whether the party would get away in its full numbers. ’Lime quickly sped, but some of its most prominent members were still .absent. Luckily, however, the late comers made their appearance before the hour of starting. They had, they declared, found the early hour “difficult-to negotiate,” but as it turned out the worst that befel them was that they had to begin the journey breakfastless. As the train passed along the flats the general appearance of the country soon became the theme of favorable comment. On every hand pastures and crops bore evidence of the beneficial results of the recent rains. The stock, too, looked in capital condition.

Otoko, which was reached at 9.45 a.m., proved a surprise to those who had not previously been so far along the line. As one of the party who is accustomed to city life expressed it, the “township” and its surroundings constituted a revelation. It is a veritable “canvas town.”

Despite the absence of many of the usual advantages enjoyed in the towns the workers and their families appeared to be very happy and contented. This no doubt is contributed to by the fact that a school lias been established in the locality. Other facilities, too, arc being provided to make the conditions more congenial and comfortable.

In due course the party repaired for breakfast. To all this item on the programme was most welcome, but to none more than those who had delayed their hour of rising until it was too late to avail themselves of an opportunity of meeting the demands of “the inner man.” Host Crosbie, it is worthy of special mention, also played his part well.

Next came the inspection of the works at the viaduct. A good deal or the work has already been finished, hut it is estimated that the undertaking will not be completed under six months. By the way, Mr. Carroll had a rather unique experience, for he indulged in a trip over the river in the aerial cage.

About 10.30 a start was made for Rakauroa. No one could fail to be struck with the signs of activity along the route. As the party advanced, team after team conveying timber, metal. etc., were met. The roads, too, were in splendid condition. In addition the railway construction works are being pushed ahead at a good rate.

Whilst at Rakauroa Mr Carroll received a deputation, which brought under his notice the necessity for establishing a second telephone between Te Karaka and Rakauroa. It- was pointed out that the business had greatly increased of late. Mr. Carroll promised to forward the representations to the proper quarter.

A halt for lunch was made at Maternal at 1 o’clock. Mr. Neill, as is his custom, provided the visitors with a most excellent repast, which, needless to say, was done ample justice to. An inspection of the railway route and locality followed. At 2.30 the journey to Motu was resumed. That township appeared in sight at 4 o’clock. All present expressed themselves pleased with tiie progress which it has made.

' It is proposed to leave for Tahora today. and it is possible that the party will later again make Rakauroa before returning to town early next week.