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Arrangements accordingly were made for experts of the Geological Survey to inspect the thermal springs. The comprehensive report furnished indicated that the sinking of additional bores would not materially affect the flow of hot mineral water to existing baths. No objection, therefore, has been raised against proposals to> increase the supply. (2) Hotels, etc. Wodtomo Caves.—The Hotel Waitomo: A further substantial increase in revenue.over the previous period is shown. Part of this increase is attributed to conducted party and group tourists from the North and South Islands. A start has been,made on the replacement of the now almost worn-out Caves' lighting system. " The resort, with all its appurtenances, has been well maintained. Two housing units for married staff have been constructed. An improvement in hotel services was the installation of a loud-speaker. Lake Wcdkaremmna.—Lake House: The Manager reports a busy year, with a marked improvement in revenue. Following two- very dry summers, Lake Waikaremoana reached an abnprmal " low " —2O ft. below normal level. As far as the resort is it has meant the restricted operation of the popular excursion to Lake Waikare-iti, the first stage'of which is covered ordinarily by launch on Lake Waikaremoana. The low level has also adversely affected angling. Renovations have been carried out during the period, and the work covers repapering of rooms and passages and the repainting of the roofs. Meters have been installed in the huts at the motor camp. Lake Tampo.—Tokaami Hotel: An increase in revenue over the previous year is disclosed. Accommodation was provided for an additional twelve fishermen. This consists of a building acquired from Hautu Detention . Camp suitably converted. A double lock-up garage for guests' cars has also been constructed from fabricated material from the same source. Buildings and plant have been well maintained. The Manager reports that there has been an apparent steady decline in Taupo fishing this season. Mount Cook District*—The Hermitage Hotel: This resort also records a large increase in revenue. Receipts increased by approximately 30 per cent. Renovations have been in progress for some years past, and, as material becomes available, it is hoped that all renovations and repairs required to bring this hotel to the high standard aimed for by the Department will be completed during the coming year. Maintenance and repair work carried out included painting of the main building, Sealy Cottage, and the Chief Guide's residence, the completion of a new lighting-plant- shed at. Ball Hut, and certain work on the hut itself. A loud-speaker system has been installed. Completion of much-needed improvements to the kitchen is still held up for reasons outside our control. Following a survey of the mountain huts associated with the Hermitage, arrangements have been made to repair and put in order Malte Brun, Haast, Hooker, and Mueller'Huts as soon, as the winter is over. There was a record ski season at the Hermitage during the winter of 1946, and the first New Zealand championships since the close of the war were held at Ball Hut. Those concerned have expressed appreciation for the Department's co-operation. A busy climbing season was experienced, and upwards of sixty first-class ascents were made. Parties also crossed Barrons Saddle, Fvfes Pass, Copland Pass, Pioneer Pass, Grahams Saddle, and Tasman Saddle.

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