Table of Contents
Books
Miscellaneous Reports
Handing Over the Park, TH, Oct 17, 1929
THE CEREMONY AT THE PARK
Control Vested in Borough. Board Members Retain Interest.
After more than 50 years of highly successful work on behalf of New Plymouth’s most beautiful possession—Pukekura Park— the Park Board to-day formally handed over the Park to the care and safe keeping of the New Plymouth Borough Council. This move, made necessary by the increased cost of maintenance of the Park consequent upon its development, is to all intents and purposes merely handing over the Park’s liabilities to the community by a body dependent in the past on voluntary subscriptions. Those men who constituted the Park Board when the negotiations with the borough were completed, and who had continued the invaluable work of developing the Park, will still retain their active interest in the Park as members of the “Pukekura Park Committee.”
HISTORY OF THE PARK – ADDRESS BY PIONEER MEMBER.
At 2.30 p.m. the guests were welcomed by the present chairman of the board (Mr. F. Amoore) and an inspection made of a group of historic trees planted on the occasion of the formal opening of the Park on May 29, 1876. One of the trees is an English yew—to-day it is little more than a stump—planted by Mrs. T. K. Skinner. The second is a puriri planted by Mr. R. C. Hughes, and the third a rimu planted by Mrs. M. A. Hughes. Next comes a Norfolk Island pine planted by Mrs. Thomas Colson, and then a pinus insignis planted by Miss Jane Carrington, daughter of Mr. F. A. Carrington, superintendent of the province. Last of all is a pinus radiata, planted by some person unknown, which is said to be the finest specimen of its kind in the North Island. These trees are all situated to the west of Cannon Hill, near the upper end of the lower lake.
After a brief tour of the Park the gathering assembled at the tea kiosk for afternoon tea. An address appropriate to the occasion was then made by Mr. R. C. Hughes, a member of the present board, who holds the remarkable record of fifty-four years continuous service as a member of the board. He was chiefly responsible for the establishment of the Park in 1876.
Mr. W. H. Skinner, who has played a leading part over a number of years in the development of the Park, also gave an address, and then Mr. Hughes formally handed over to the Mayor of New Plymouth (Mr. H. V. S. Griffiths) the deeds by which the Park, after fifty-four years’ existence under board control, is now vested in the borough.
Reference was made by the Mayor to the two puriri trees at the Liardet Street entrance to the sportsground planted by Mr. and Mrs. C. H. Burgess on July 21, 1919, to commemorate the declaration of peace, and Mr. Burgess replied.
The ceremony was completed by the planting of a kauri tree by the Mayor in the recently developed portion of the Park alongside the fernery.
HUGHES’ ADDRESS.
“I wish to thank my fellow members of the board for the compliment which they have paid me in asking me to speak on this occasion. It is an occasion of some moment, because it marks the death of the board and the birth of, the new governing body.
“It is now 54 years since the board came into existence, the Ordinance of the Taranaki Provincial Council under which it was constituted having been passed in June 1875. The part I took in bringing this about has already been published, so I shall say little on that subject. I desire, however, to mention the names of some others who are entitled to thanks. The Provincial Secretary, the late Thomas Kelly, M.L.C., and the late Arthur Standish, who was then Provincial Treasurer, with Mr. F. A. Carrington, the Provincial Superintendent, warmly supported the proposal to dedicate a part of the town for a recreation ground. I desire to mention also the name of Peter Elliot, an old member of the Council, who fathered the question which I tabled asking the Provincial Government to provide land for that purpose. The Government selected the present site. It consisted of 109 quarter-acre sections and three larger allotments, with intervening streets, the whole containing 48 acres 3 roods 6 perches. The Provincial Executive obtained a transfer of these sections and allotments from the Education Board for a piece of land on the Smart Road.
ROUGH LAND SELECTED.
“The site so selected for a Park was a rough piece of unfenced ground, broken by numerous gullies and containing not an acre of level land. The whole was covered with fern, furze and tutu. It was no light undertaking to convert this into a Park, but the Government gave a small subsidy. The Ordinance as originally drawn vested the land in the Town Board of New Plymouth with a subsidy of £400.
The Board, however, refused to accept the responsibility. Thereupon the Provincial Secretary intimated that he would drop the measure. I, however, opposed this course, and offered to get trustees to take the responsibility. Trustees were secured. They were John Gilmour, Isaac Broad, Harris Ford, James Thomas Davis, Thomas King, Robert J. Collins and myself. It was a strange acknowledgment of the public spirit shown by these gentlemen that the Executive reduced the subsidy to £200.
The Trustees at once entered upon the discharge of their duties and from that time the work of supervision and control and the providing of funds has been carried on by trustees.
“Of the original trustees I am the only one left. Of the members of the Provincial Council, under whose legislation the board was constituted, the only survivors are Mr. John Andrews, formerly of Huirangi, now of Fitzroy, and myself.
PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT ABOLISHED.
“My diary shows that the Council was prorogued on June 30, 1875. It never met again, for on October 12 of that year the system of provincial government throughout New Zealand was abolished. The question of abolition had been a burning one for years. Abolition was opposed by Sir George Grey, superintendent of Auckland, Dr. Featherston, superintendent of Wellington, and Mr. MacAndrew, superintendent of Otago. Our own council also opposed it, but Parliament saw fit to pass the Abolition Bill.
“These facts are worthy of mention because abolition meant a great loss to Taranaki, whose land revenue from that time became colonial revenue. This did not seem fair to Taranaki, seeing that other provinces such as Canterbury and Otago had sold most of their lands and had used the proceeds to develop their respective provinces.
“It was, however, fortunate for this district that the Provincial Council in the session just ended had passed an Ordinance providing for the construction of a harbour at New Plymouth and appropriating for that purpose one fourth of the land revenue.
How deeply indebted is this community to the foresight of that last Council.
EXAMINATION OF LAND.
“Returning to the history of the Park, my diary contains under date October 3, 1875, the following entry: ‘Having been appointed one of the Board of Trustees for the Recreation Ground, I went with the other members and the deputy superintendent, Mr. Standish, to inspect the scene of our future labour, We found the land, nearly fifty acres, admirably adapted to our purpose.’
“The formal opening of the grounds is thus described in my diary under date Monday, May 29, 1876: ‘The Recreation Board having arranged for the public planting of the first tree on the Queen’s birthday, were compelled by the weather to postpone the ceremony till to-day, when it took place with a little eclat. Miss Jane Carrington was the heroine of the occasion. The superintendent made a little speech. Tom King followed with a little speech, the band played, and the profanum vulgus, led off by myself, cheered for all concerned. I, Pross and mother planted trees.’
“The agreement for the transfer of the Park was effected only after most careful negotiation. The first proposal of this kind was made about four years ago by a member distinguished by her zeal and energy. While recognising her claims for consideration I felt bound to vote with the majority of the board in opposing it.
HANDING OVER CONTROL.
“About twelve months ago I was taken by surprise when a leading member of the board announced that he thought that the time had come to hand over the Park to the Borough and let ratepayers provide the funds, as we had come to the end of our tether.
Again, I opposed. I pointed out that from the beginning we had carried on under financial difficulties, but yet we had carried on. To hand over the grounds to the Borough would be suicidal, just like the act of a man who cut his throat because he was in difficulties. However, negotiations were opened with the Council. It was the object of the board to obtain an assurance that the management of the Park would not suffer by the change and that there would be a continuity of design in development. The Council readily agreed to a suggestion that the existing members of the board should continue in control as a committee, the Mayor being added. This arrangement solved the difficulty. Thus, the community now have the assurance that the grounds will be maintained and developed on the lines which in the past have proved so satisfactory. The position then may be expressed in the saying, ‘Le Roi est mort; vive le Roi’ (The King is dead; long live the King). It also finds expression in the maxim ‘Non moritur Rex’ (The King never dies), and also by the homelier saying, ‘John Brown’s body lies mouldering in the grave, but his soul keeps marching on.’
“The board is transferring to the Borough an area of land substantially greater than the 48 acres 3 roods 6 perches with which it was endowed. The board acquired from time to time various sections within its boundaries and some adjoining the grounds, so that the area has been increased to 55 acres 1 rood 8 perches.
TERMS OF AGREEMENT.
“These are the terms of the agreement with the Council: The board undertook to pay off all its liabilities by means of a bank overdraft. Upon due payment of all their liabilities the petition to the Governor-General for the transfer of the Park would be presented. His assent would automatically vest the Park in the Council, which, in that event, undertook to pay off the board’s overdraft provided it did not exceed £900.
“The board undertook to execute a deed of trust to secure that the following trust funds would be applied to the purposes set out opposite the description of such funds respectively, namely:- Newton King Trust, £3000. Income to be applied in the first place to erection of tea-rooms in the Park, in the second place to maintenance and upkeep of fernery, and thirdly general maintenance and improvement of Park. C. H. Burgess (£300, plus interest £120, £420); Josiah Attrill Trust, £100; Annie Hulke Trust, £100; Mary Ellen Freeth Trust, £50; all for permanent improvements. “Thus, the Council will take over an area of land substantially greater than that with which the board was endowed and will have the income derivable from the foregoing trust funds.
“It will have been noted that I opposed the transfer of the Park to the Borough. It is well therefore that I should give reasons. Councillors are not selected because of their knowledge of horticulture or arboriculture or the management of Parks and playgrounds, but by reason of their fitness to discharge the very important duties imposed upon them by the Municipal Corporations Act. Moreover the personnel of a council is always changing. Thus the reserves committee of a newly elected council might have very different views as to the management of a Park from those held by their predecessors. Hence there would be a want of continuity of design in management.
A TRAMWAYS SUGGESTION.
To illustrate the necessity for eternal vigilance one might mention a proposal made to our board by the council about three years ago, when the extension of the tram to Vogeltown was being urged. The Borough Council actually asked the board to permit a tram line to be opened up and carried through the Park. The line was to enter from Gilbert Street, to cut through the plantation of native trees, pass between the lower lake and the lovely fern dell waterfall, cross the brook, and strike into the steep hill side near the caretaker’s cottage, thence along the hillside to Vogeltown. This would have involved the cutting down of many valued trees and plants, including pines of 50 years’ growth, and not only those in the direct route, but also all overhanging trees that might threaten the safety of the line. What a scene of desolation. On the one side high steep clay banks, on the other the slopes covered with spoil from the cuttings. You need not be told how I voted in this case. Fortunately I was not the only opponent, and the scheme was vetoed. This is why I am so pleased that the management of the Park will be in the hands of a committee composed at the outset of members of the old board. Later on a proposal to construct a thoroughfare through the Park was made, but not by the council this time. This was a car route from the Liardet Street entrance to the Racecourse, to enable visitors to inspect both reserves without the trouble of alighting. Again I was in opposition, objecting to the felling of trees which would be involved, and believing that it was more important to preserve the rights of our own citizens and their children to the peaceful and safe enjoyment of the Park than to make things easy for tourists who were merely ‘doing the sights.’
DESTRUCTION OF TREES.
“It seems to me that the capacity of a local body to manage an ornamental reserve is questionable when one considers the experience of a certain locality. Before proceeding further I ask members of Borough Council to bear with me in my criticism and to accept my assurance that I am not here to find fault, but am merely animated by a love of trees and a desire for their preservation where possible and to encourage people to regard trees as friends and companions. One of the beauty spots of our town was the Henui Cemetery sheltered with its fine trees and bounded by the beautiful Henui River. Visitors from outside were loud in its praise. However, the reformer has been at work and tree after tree has been felled, and this to such an extent that the pines which encircled it and gave it, an air of privacy and repose have mostly disappeared, revealing acres of white tombstones. Doubtless some of the large pines in the central part of the grounds might well have been removed, but to my mind some of the finest specimens should have been spared, so that here and there they would have broken the sky-line just like the stately oaks and elms which adorn an English churchyard. A notable feature of the cemetery was a double row of fine old Norfolk pines, sixty years old, which formed an avenue leading from the entrance to the mortuary chapel—an avenue not to be equalled in any other cemetery in New Zealand. Every tree in this noble avenue has been cut down. Beneath the shelter of one of the pines lies the body of William Morgan Crompton (my old schoolmaster), one of the Commissioners who laid out the cemetery and had these trees planted.
TREES AND THE AXE.
“Oh! for a poet like Newbolt, gifted with imagination to visualise the scene and give expression to the indignation of the old Commissioner upon hearing the thud of the axe, just, as in “Drake’s Drum,” Newbolt visualised Drake, in his hammock “slung atween the round shot in Nombre Dios Bay,” roused at the thought of another Armada, exclaiming: “If the Dons sight Devon I’ll quit the port of Heaven, and drum them up the Channel as we drummed them long ago.” It is interesting to note that while Drake never ceased to think of Plymouth Hoe, Crompton, in planting these trees, did so for the sake of New Plymouth at the Antipodes.
“It was some comfort to me a few months ago to observe still standing an old and very large macrocarpa on the slope behind the mortuary chapel, a tree of immense size which afforded shelter from wind and rain; but, alas! on a recent visit I found that it had fallen a victim to the woodman’s axe—a boon, perhaps, to someone in search of cheap firewood. Even on the occasion of a later visit I noticed that the work of destruction was still going on. A large sycamore about two feet in diameter lay on the ground near the entrance gate, and beside it a large well grown oak—more cheap firewood, I suppose. “It is a relief to pass from these criticisms and give a few words of praise.
SOME EARLY WORKERS.
“When one considers what has been achieved in converting this rough locality into a Park, the unique beauties of which have gained distinction for New Plymouth, one feels bound to hold in grateful remembrance those who have laboured to produce this result. It is, however, impossible in this brief memoir to do justice to all, but at the risk of being invidious I venture mention a few whose names occur to me. Our first secretary, who did good pioneering work, was Robert J. Collins, afterwards known to fame as Colonel Collins and Auditor-General. Our next secretary was Mr. Reginald Bailey. He drew a large plan showing how the grounds should be laid out. Often was his tall athletic figure to be seen after office hours engaged like a navvy in excavating the foundations of the massive dam which controls the waters of the upper lake. Mr. Harold Tribe was a later secretary. He presented the board with the concrete platform and steps near the band rotunda which give access to the lake.
“Mr. T. K. Skinner was a surveyor from whose thoughts the Park was rarely absent. He marked out the levels of our principal walks. He used to spend day after day in the grounds working gratuitously with his chainman. James Thomas Davies was another enthusiast. He gave nearly all the money required for the construction of the “Poets’ Bridge.” Mr. Clement Govett was an ardent supporter. He was chairman for years. When a man about to make his will was unable to decide how to dispose of a particular sum Mr. Govett would give direction to his thoughts—sometimes to the benefit of the Park. Mr. Thomas Colson, a neighbouring resident—a lover of trees and plants—spent much time in the grounds working and overlooking the caretaker.
“Mr. Percy Smith was another enthusiast. Among his activities he supervised the work of extending the upper lake as far as Brooklands, employing for this purpose a gang of Māoris. It was at his instance the place was named “Pukekura Park” instead of “Rec,” which it was generally called. Mr. Richard Cock has been of great service, both as a member of the board and its chairman. Although not now a member he still retains much interest in the Park. Mr. C. H. Burgess was for some years chairman and was of great service. Being Mayor during part of this period he very generously refused to make use of his honorarium as Mayor, but devoted it to the purposes of the board. This explains the presence of the substantial sum of £420 among our trust funds. Mr. W. W. Smith was superintendent for a long time. He encouraged the planting of native trees and ferns, of which he introduced many new specimens. He exercised a wide influence on students of botany and natural history. His attainments in these sciences caused him to be much sought after. Mr. F. P. Corkill was for many years a member of the board and its chairman for some time. In the latter capacity his energy was productive of good results. “To the ladies of New Plymouth the board owes much for their services in raising funds. One of the earliest was Mrs. Humphries, the widow of Dr. Larwill Humphries. Many a fair and entertainment she carried out, assisted by her five daughters and other ladies. Mrs. Richard Cock and Mrs. Harris Ford also did good service in this direction. In more recent years Mrs. Burgess has played a distinguished part in raising funds and in ornamenting the Park.
PARK’S CARETAKERS.
“The excellent condition of the Park owes much to the care and energy of Mr. Horton, the present superintendent, assisted by a good staff of workmen, a staff more numerous than was available for his predecessors.
“In recent years I have played but a secondary part. Although to be found at the meetings I have been content to give place to the younger and more energetic members of the board, namely to Messrs. C. Burgess, H. Dempsey, F. Amoore, P. Stainton, C. E. Bellringer, W. C. Weston, J. M’Leod, and W. F. Short, all of whom have shown much energy and resourcefulness. For the design of the fernery of which we are so proud we have to thank Mrs. Lovell, of Hawera. In the carrying out of the design the board is greatly indebted to Mr. Horton, Mr. Victor Davies, and Mr. Besley. The board is very fortunate in its secretary, Mr. Stainton. For thoroughness and efficiency he has had no equal.
“Of the board’s employees during all these years, one holds a kindly place in my memory. Darby Claffey—a short, thick-set, Irish peasant. For many years Darby was our only workman. Though poorly paid he carried on cheerfully. Want of learning did not detract from his capacity to work—many a chain of ditch he dug; many a sod bank he built. When spoil and debris increased beyond the capacity of his wheelbarrow the board provided him with a little cart, and for the cart a little donkey. With these Darby was as happy as if he were back once more in old Ireland. Darby and his donkey were famous features of the grounds for many years. His Irish humour always was a pleasant characteristic. An odd instance occurs to me. On one occasion he was asked by a visitor if we possessed a specimen of a certain plant, of which the visitor gave its botanical name. Darby, innocent of botany said: ‘Yes, come and I’ll show you.’ When they reached the spot the plant shown was a fine specimen of gorse in full bloom.
ANOTHER BEAUTY SPOT.
Before concluding I would like to draw attention to the opportunity of preserving for the town one of its finest landscapes—the view of the Huatoki Valley with snow-clad Egmont beyond. The owners of the land adjoining the Carrington Road, who have been offering it for sale, have now withdrawn the land from sale, intending ultimately to build on it. The erection of buildings would block this noble view. From my negotiations with their land agent I am inclined to believe that for the sake of the town the owners might be induced to sell the part near the Vivian Street bridge. The acquisition of this would largely preserve the view. It is possible that the owners would be content with a small deposit and leave the balance at interest.
“In conclusion, let me say that the holding of this ceremony to-day will be justified if it shall have roused in our citizens a determination, to continue the work of beautifying our town and make it deserving of Its name, ‘The Garden of Taranaki,’ as Taranaki is known as ‘The Garden of New Zealand’.”
SUNDRY JOTTINGS
POINTS OF INTEREST.
The first trees were planted on May 29, 1876, by Miss Jane Carrington, daughter of Mr. F. A. Carrington, member for the district in the House of Representatives and, superintendent of the province, who laid out the town of New Plymouth in 1841. She planted an oak representing Great Britain, a puriri for New Zealand, a Norfolk pine for the South Pacific Island, and a pinus insignus for America.
The largest attendance of people at the Sports Ground was over 12,000 on the occasion of the Rugby football match between Taranaki and the Springboks on July 16, 1921. A start has been made with a scheme of labelling trees and shrubs with their botanical and popular names. The formation of the upper lake was undertaken in 1878.
The ducks on the lake are descendants of six dozen teal and hybrid ducks bequeathed to Mr. W. W. Smith by the late Mr. Taylor White, of Weber, Hawke’s Bay. Mr. Smith, who was their curator, presented the ducks to the Park 15 years ago.
Custodians of the Park in their order of service are as follow:- Messrs. C. Carnell, Breidecker, D. Claffey, C. Edgecombe, R. Mace, W. W. Smith and T. H. Horton.
“Pukekura” means “Hill of the Red Parrot.” It was a tapued bird reserve of the Māori in pre-European days.
The first fish hatchery, at the head of the lily pond, was built nine years ago and was succeeded about five years ago by the present building.
The whale jawbones surmounting the tablet dedicated to deceased benefactors were placed there about 14 years ago. The whale, which was washed up on the beach, was exhibited in the Park, but the remains were destroyed upon becoming in a poor state of preservation!
The pair of swans on the upper lake were brought from the river Avon, Christchurch, about nine years ago.
The position of secretary to the board has always been honorary. The following, in order of service, have taken office: Messrs. R. J. Collins, R. Bayley, H. Ford, F. P. Corkill, E. H. Tribe (twice), C. H. Drew, and P. C. Stainton.
Electric lights were Placed at convenient, points nine years ago.
The shed at the lower end of the upper lake was used by swimmers until about five years ago, when it was taken over for use by the superintendent.
There are eight ways by which legitimate entrance is gained to the Park—from Liardet Street, Gilbert Street, Carrington Road (three gates), Brooklands Road, Racecourse and John Street.
The area of the Park is approximately 58 acres. The original area was 48 acres 2 roods 9 perches, but sections of an aggregate of about 10 acres have been added. Chairmen of the board include. Messrs. Thomas King, J. T. Davis, R. C. Hughes, F. P. Corkill, Percy Smith, W L. Newman, C. W. Govett, H. Ford, C. E. Bellringer, H. Dempsey and F. Amoore.
The monumental fountain, commemorative of the jubilee of Queen Victoria’s reign, was erected in 1897, the year of the jubilee.
The tablet dedicated to the memory of deceased benefactors contains the following names: J. T. Davis, Martha King, Peter Madsen, Clement William Govett, Isabella Small, R. H. Govett, Helen Romaine Broham and Ann Hulke.
The band rotunda was erected about 30 years ago, the smaller bridge on the upper lake about 25 years, and the accommodation pavilion at the Sports Ground about six years ago.
A BOTANICAL SURVEY TREES’ RAPID GROWTH.
The Park offers a very extensive field for the naturalist, and many fine and rare native trees are growing therein. Kauris grow rapidly. One fine specimen is 33 feet in height, with a trunk six inches in diameter at a distance of four feet from the ground.
The tree is 21 years old. Several good specimens of tānekaha are showing vigorous growth. There is the “celery topped pine” of Hooker. The three species of totara are growing rapidly, and there are groups of fine specimens ranging from five to 39 years old. Ages of the rimu trees, of which there are several varieties, range from 17 to 34 years. Miro, planted from 14 to 25 years ago are growing robustly and are graceful young forest trees. A charm of the Park is the puriri trees, of rapid growth. The most magnificent specimens growing south of Kawhia are in Mr. Newton King’s garden, adjoining the Park.
The pinus insignis trees show the best and straightest growth in New Zealand. There are some splendid specimens of pinus torreyana, which yields good timber for furniture and general work. The tree is a native of Puget Sound (Washington). American redwood pines, which produce valuable timber, are showing good growth. The six species of tree ferns are most admired by visitors from overseas. Taranaki is the home of the magnificent mamaku, the “King of Tree Ferns.” There are seven species of native orchids, which are of great interest in the flowering season. The large island at the head of the upper lake was planted with 27 species of native plants 27 years ago. With two exceptions they succeeded well, and are a good illustration of the comparative growth of native trees under favourable conditions. There are 44 species of native ferns and 28 native mosses in the Park. Some of both orders are of beautiful and rare forms. The Park also contains a fine series of specimens of kaimomako, kaikawaka, kaiwhiria, kakaramea, kakahha, karaka, karo, kumarahou, kōwhai, kohekohe. Agerautangi, hohoeka, horopito, maire, mairehau, monoau, and mauku grow luxuriantly. paratawhiti (horseshoe fern), patatē, puahou, putaputaweta and puwhaureroa (the bird catching tree) are well represented. Five species of rata, two timber trees and three climbers, flourish.
In the very beautiful fernery, recently built, the Park Board has been assembling a complete collection of the many ferns for which the New Zealand flora is noted. It is hoped that this fernery will finally be the most complete in New Zealand.
Handing Over the Park, TH, Oct 18, 1929
CEREMONIAL TRANSFER – HANDING OVER PUKEKURA PARK
Borough Council Take Control – Park Board Delivers Title Deeds
It was as though Nature approved the decision of the Pukekura Park Board to hand over the title deeds of the Park, and with them the control of the grounds, to the Borough Council when, on Thursday afternoon amidst bright sunshine, and in the balmy air of an ideal spring day—a perfect day for such an occasion—the ceremony of handing over the control of the Park by the one body to the other took place in the presence of a very representative assemblage of citizens, especially of those still living who had been associated with the establishment of the Park and the descendents of others who had taken a prominent part in its development, and those of a later generation who had played a part in developing what had been so well begun.
The occasion was in every respect a notable one, and marked, in a way which nothing else could do, the recognition that the Park is the heritage of the people of this district for all time, and that as it is theirs to enjoy so is it theirs to maintain and improve. While the ceremony marked the end of the work of the Park Board as such, and the vesting of the grounds in the Borough Council, who will hereafter be charged with the responsibility of providing the wherewithal to maintain and develop the grounds, it did not mean that those who have done so much in this direction in the past will cease from their good works, for the management of the Park is to remain in the hands of the members of the board as a committee under the council, and they will continue the work which has been planned.
Neither did it mean that in the future there will be no call upon the public for funds for the maintenance of the Park. There will always be scope for the expenditure of any money given to the Park, and such gifts and contributions will always be welcomed, and as stated at the gathering on Thursday, any gifts of money made to the Park will be utilised in effecting permanent improvements. In time, however, the maintenance of the Park will become a charge upon the general body of ratepayers, and it is in this connection that the authority of the Borough Council will be exercised. It scarcely required the assurance of the Mayor to satisfy the past members of the board, or the citizens in general, that nothing would be done by the council to jeopardise the future of the Park because of the change in the controlling body.
The proceedings of Thursday afternoon were not only of a ceremonial character, but they were of a very enjoyable nature. Everyone appreciated the walk through the grounds, and the talks given by the curator (Mr. T. Horton) on the trees planted by the early settlers, and also the pleasant gathering at afternoon tea, and especially the very interesting resumé of the history of the Park given by Mr. R. C. Hughes, who has been an active member of the board ever since the Park was constituted over 54 years ago. The occasion will long be remembered by those privileged to participate in it, and no one fears that the Park will suffer anything from the formal change in the controlling authority.
CHAIRMAN WELCOMES VISTORS
Gathered around the first tree planted in the Park, the chairman of the board (Mr. F. Amoore) extended a cordial welcome to the visitors, and outlined the programme which had been arranged. Mr. Amoore said it was his privilege and pleasure as chairman of the board to extend to all a welcome to beautiful Pukekura Park. As they knew the function had been arranged for a two-fold purpose, to formally hand over the Park to the borough and to do honour to those men and women —the early pioneers—who had the foresight to secure the land and carry on the work which had transformed it into the beautiful Park it was to-day. The Park, he said, was vested in trustees in 1875, and was then a piece of waste land—nothing more than a raupo swamp—but it was taken in hand by those pioneers and trees were planted, thus starting the work of beautification. Some time later—about ten years—work was started on the Sports Ground, which was also a raupo swamp in those days. This was drained and the work of laying out the ground proceeded with. To-day it was one of the finest sportsgrounds in the Domain.
With regard to the board, the citizens had been very fortunate in obtaining the services of men who had so willingly given of their time and money to the upkeep of the Park. Lack of money had always been a source of trouble to the board, until to-day the burden had become so heavy it found it could not carry on without assistance from elsewhere. The board therefore looked around to see what was the best thing to do, and thought of the borough. It was felt that the borough was the proper authority to hold the deeds of the Park, which should be a charge on the rates. Very soon he hoped it would be an entire charge on the rates instead of a partial responsibility as to-day. At the same time he wished to acknowledge the way in which the people had assisted in the past, but in the interests of the Park, he felt that the whole of the finance necessary for its upkeep should be assured.
FIRST TREES PLANTED
Escorted by Mr. Thos. Horton (superintendent), those present walked around the lower lake, inspecting enroute the pinus insignis tree planted by Miss Jane Carrington, daughter of Mr. F. A. Carrington, superintendent of the province, a pinus radiata, the rimu planted by Mrs. M. A. Hughes, puriri planted by Mr. Robert Hughes, yew tree planted by Mrs. T. K. Skinner, and Norfolk Island pine planted by Mrs. T. Colson, all on May 29, 1875.
MAYOR PLANTS A KAURI
The party then proceeded to the gully in the vicinity of the fernery and leading to the racecourse, which has during the past few years been transformed into one of the most picturesque corners of the Park. Here the Mayor (Mr. H. V. S. Griffiths) planted a kauri, after which Mr. Horton escorted the visitors through the fernery, explaining the work that had been done here and what it was proposed to do in future. An adjournment was then made to the tea kiosk, where the guests were entertained to a delightful afternoon tea served by Mrs. Ainsworth. Later Mr. Amoore announced apologies from Mesdames F. E. Wilson, Newton King and Deacon, Messrs. S. G. Smith, MP., T. C. List, R. Cock, W. C. Weston. V. C. Davies, Devenish, Deacon. and Dr. Brewster.
“FATHER OF PARK”
Mr. R. C. Hughes, described by Mr. Amoore as the “Father of the Park,” then addressed those present, his speech, which was listened to with great interest, being published on Wednesday.
Mr. Hughes made special reference to the work of the late Mr. T. K. Skinner who had laid out the Park, spending day after day with his chainman working gratuitously in that direction.
At the call of Mr. P. E. Stainton (hon. secretary of the Board), cheers were given for Mr. Hughes.
AN ENTERPRISE OF HOPE AND ENERGY
Mr. W. H. Skinner acknowledged the compliment which had been extended to him in asking him to say a few words, and presumed it was due to the work of his family in connection with the grounds, and particularly that of his brother (the late Mr. T. K. Skinner) who was largely instrumental in the laying out of the grounds as they saw them to-day. So far as he personally was concerned, his work had been in starting the sportsground, though not as they saw it now. It was started without capital, but with hope and energy, and that work had been followed by others until they saw it to-day as Mr Amoore had said, one of the finest sportsgrounds in New Zealand. In the pioneer days the valley which formed the Park was all wooded, and only a remnant of the permanent forest remained at the far end of the upper lake. It would be interesting to many of them, perhaps, to know that out of this valley came the timber with which many of the early houses in New Plymouth were built. The main timbers of St. Mary’s Church were obtained here.
RING OF REDOUBTS
Continuing, Mr. Skinner said that during the Māori war period the Park was considered to be one of the most dangerous approaches for an assault by the Natives on the town, and therefore a ring of redoubts and sentries were provided with the object of preventing such an attack. He thanked Mr. Hughes for his kindly references to his brother and himself, and congratulated the board which had worked so arduously in the interests of the Park.
Like Mr. Hughes, he had his doubts as to whether it was a wise step to hand the Park over to the borough. From his experience in different parts of the Dominion, it had not always been a success where local bodies had had control, and New Plymouth was not so fortunate as the cities of Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, for instance, where they were able to devote very large sums of money for the upkeep and beautification of their Parks without it falling heavily on the ratepayers. This was an experiment so far as New Plymouth was concerned, and he hoped he would live long enough to see it a success. There was an element of danger, but on the other hand the cost of upkeep was mounting up every year, and the development of the grounds must go on, and the ratepayers as a whole should pay for it rather than the board having to rely on the generosity of the same few people all the time.
DEEDS HANDED OVER
Mr. Hughes then handed to the Mayor the deeds of the Park, remarking that the area of the ground originally was 48 acres 3 roods 6 perches. Purchases made from time to time, however, had increased the total to-day to 55 acres 1 rood and 8 perches. In addition to this the board handed over its trust funds, viz., the sum of £3000, which was given by the late Mr. Newton King, £300 plus £120 interest from Mr. and Mrs. C. H. Burgess, £100 from the late Mr. J. Attrill, £100 from the late Mrs. Hulke, and £50 from the late Mrs. Freeth. He handed the deeds and trust moneys over in every confidence that the Borough Council would guard and treasure it for the town, and that they would regard it as a sacred trust and never part with an inch of it.
RESPONSIBILITY RECOGNISED
The Mayor, in receiving the deeds, said this was a memorable day. In accepting the deeds of Pukekura Park from Mr. Hughes, he did so with a full recognition of the responsibility that passed with them to the Borough Council as representatives of the citizens of New Plymouth. He assured Mr. Hughes and those associated with him on the board at the present time, that the council was mindful of that responsibility, and that it would be the duty of this and subsequent councils to cherish this beautiful Jewel that they had set in their midst—one of the most priceless jewels in Taranaki. It would be their duty and privilege to develop the Park for the people of New Plymouth, of Taranaki, and New Zealand, and far beyond New Zealand.
He was sure the fears expressed by Mr. Hughes that the council would need watching were quite groundless. The council dare not do anything in connection with this Park that would jeopardise its beauty. The present council, he was sure, would not, and future councils dare not because there would be such an outburst of public sentiment against them. It was Mrs. Burgess who first suggested, when she was a member of the board some ten years ago, that the Park be handed over to the borough. The council would not only endeavour to maintain it in its present state, but as the people’s representatives, see that an adequate amount was provided year by year to ensure the Park being still further improved. In this connection they were delighted to have the assurance of the present members of the board that they were prepared to remain on the board so that nominally the council would simply be the guardian of the Park to provide the necessary funds whereby the board could continue its work. The council would do everything possible in this direction. He trusted that Mr. Hughes would live many years to watch the progress of the Park and see it growing in beauty.
Fifty-four years had elapsed since the first tree was planted In the Park by Miss Carrington. That tree as they had seen, had flourished, and he expressed the hope that the kauri he had planted that afternoon would be flourishing 54 years hence, and be a monument to mark the occasion of the transfer of the Park to the council. His Worship referred to the trees planted at the entrance of the Park by Mr. and Mrs. Burgess to commemorate Peace Day, and trusted that these too, would be protected and cared for by the people of New Plymouth for all time.
PIONEERS’ VISI0N
Mr. C. H. Burgess congratulated Mr. Hughes on his most interesting address, and also said how he had been impressed with the wonderful memory Mr. Hughes had. Mr. Hughes and those associated with him from the beginning had wonderful vision of what this town was going to be, and of what they could make of this place. Looking back 54 years one could not help but realise too that those concerned must have had stout hearts to have tackled the work involved. Men like Reggie Bayley and others were not afraid to take their coats off and do a hard day’s work for the public. Mr. Hughes had given yeoman service for the last 54 years, and the speaker expressed the hope that he would live many years longer to look after the Borough Council. At the same time he was satisfied that no council now or in the future would destroy the features of the Park. Personally he thought it was the duty of the Borough Council to take over not only this asset but other Parks. New Plymouth would be a big city before many years had gone by, and it would be impossible for the different committees to carry on extensions that would be necessary. There was no reason why the Borough Council should take over the actual working of the Parks, but they should take some responsibility for financing them. In fact, if New Plymouth was to be made the watering place they all expected it to be, the council would have to take greater responsibilities still. The Mayor said he wished to place on record their appreciation of the magnificent service rendered by members of the board during the past 54 years. The town owed them a great debt of gratitude for the sacrifices they had made individually and collectively during that long period.
DONATION OF £100
Mr. Amoore announced that an anonymous donor, to commemorate the occasion, had given a cheque for £100, the stipulation being that it be used for permanent improvements in the Park. This, Mr. Amoore added, was the policy of the board. It was its intention to utilise every donation for providing some permanent improvement so that it could be handed down for posterity.
The proceedings terminated with the gathering again honouring Mr. Hughes by singing “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow.”
BOARD MEMBERS 1876
Messrs. R. C. Hughes, J. Gilmour, Harris Ford, J. C. Davis, Thos. King, R. J. Collins.
BOARD MEMBERS 1929
Messrs. F. Amoore (chairman), C. E. Bellringer, H. Dempsey, H. V. S. Griffiths. R. C. Hughes, Jas M’Leod, F. Parker, W. F. Short, G. M. Spence, P. E. Stainton (hon. secretary), R. W. Tate, W. C. Weston, Thos Horton, F.R.H.S (superintendent).
PAST MEMBERS OF THE BOARD*
Mrs. C. H. Burgess, Messrs. Clement Govett, F. P. Corkill, W. L. Newman, Harris Ford, Percy Smith, W. A. Collis, T. K. Skinner, C. Carter, M. Fraser, C. H. Burgess, R. Cock, D. Hutchen, E. Dockrill, F. T. Bellringer, A. E. Watkins, G. Tisch, W. Ambury, H. Stocker, G. W. Browne, F. Jackson, F. E. Wilson, E. H. Tribe, J. Hayden, A. S. Brooker and A. T. Moore.
*A notable omission from the list of Board members was that of James Davidson who was Board chairman from 1881 until his death by suicide in 1885.
Thomas Horton's Brooklnds Report - 1933
BROOKLANDS REPORT
A Report on Brooklands compiled jointly by Thomas Horton and Tom Boulton (Brooklands Head Gardener). This report for the Park Board was done to highlight the volume of work required to successfully incorporate Brooklands into Pukekura Park once it was officially handed over. It was issued on December 30, 1933.
FENCES
The boundary fences all require overhauling. Some new posts and battens will be required, and where new wires are necessary, we can use spare wire from intermediate fences, that we recommend be removed. It is imperative that all boundary fences be put in good order promptly, so as to ensure safety from stock. The boundary of the Brooklands area, (excluding the bush gully near Upjohn Street) is roughly 100 chains. To repair the boundary fences efficiently, it will require 78 posts, 4 strainers, 100 battens and 5 stays. The bush gully area at the far end of the estate, containing 5 acres 1 rood 11 perches has a boundary of approximately 39 chains, and of this, 24 chains require to be erected. For this purpose, we require 80 posts, 4 strainers, 200 battens, 5 stays, 5cwt wire and staples. Total material required, and cost, is as follows:-
158 totara posts @ 2s 3d = £19 1s 10d
8 Strainers @ 10s = £4
300 Battens @ 15s = £2 5s
3 Cwt Barbed Wire @ 19s = £2 17s
2 Cwt Plain Wire @ 16s = £1 12s
25 lbs Staples @ 3d = 6s 3d
10 Stays, 12ft long, 4 x 3 = £1 16s
Total = £31 18s 1d
DIVIDING FENCES
There are over one hundred chains of dividing fences. Some of these are in good condition, and in others, repairs are necessary. The dividing fence between the orchard and garden, we recommend should be removed, and this will give us all the material necessary for repairing the other dividing fences. The fence in front of the homestead, we suggest be moved out at the North-east corner, so as to enclose the small group of trees at present exposed to stock. Practically all the wires on boundary and dividing fences will require to be tightened up.
ORCHARD
The old orchard, we suggest, should be destroyed, trees grubbed out, and the area prepared for planting. We recommend this area be planted in assorted native trees. At the Western side of the orchard, there is at present a row of pines, affording fair shelter from Westerly winds. This shelter belt should be strengthened and considerably fortified, by planting additional pines or other suitable shelter trees on the vacant land at the western side of the present row of pines. The row of Lawsoniana now growing between the orchard and front garden shrubbery, we suggest, should be dug up, and replanted approximately twenty-five feet from their present position. In close proximity to the Lawsoniana hedge, are some dilapidated old pines and a smothering growth of Eleagnus. We advise these be grubbed out later on.
PARKING SITE
We recommend that a suitable area near the gate leading into the orchard and to the right of the main entrance gate, be reserved and prepared for this purpose.
SHELTER BELT
All that area between Messrs Grundy, Bond and Shepherds boundary, on the western side of the bush, we suggest be planted with suitable shelter trees; and that this shelter be extended (at least half a chain wide) along the whole of the Southern side of the bush to Mr. List’s gully.
BUSH PATHS OR TRACKS
We suggest that all the old bush tracks be opened up and clearly defined, and new tracks formed where essential. That notices be erected where necessary, asking visitors to keep to the defined tracks and not to injure or mutilate trees, or remove ferns or plants. The opening of the bush paths as indicated will reveal a much greater extent of bush than most people think there is, and we are of the opinion that walks through this portion of the property will become very popular and enjoyable. A really good job of these tracks can be made without the necessity of cutting or damaging much of the growth. It will be necessary to cut through a dead log or two, and to remove a little of the debris, but we advise leaving everything as natural as possible. From these paths, visitors can obtain a glorious view of the whole bush area, and there should be no reason or excuse for anyone not keeping to the regulations. The historic puriri tree and one or two other trees of special value and interest, we advise, should have a low protecting fence erected around them.
Many of the trees in the native bush are threatened with ruin by the phenomenal smothering growth of a noxious climbing plant. To save the trees it will be advisable to remove this as much as is it is possible. Quite a lot has already been removed, but it is a slow and tedious job, much of the growth being difficult to get at.
VEGETABLE GARDEN AND SMALL-FRUIT AREA
We advise that this area be cleaned up, trees and plants eradicated, posts and wire removed and the whole of this part be levelled up and prepared, so as to extend the lawn over to the bush. There are two small hedges, ( Escallonia and Fuchsia) that may have to be removed to enable this scheme to be carried out. When completed this will be a very decided improvement. We think this work should put in hand as soon as possible. A very fine specimen of Fagus Purpurea (Purple Beech) now growing outside the entrance gates, together with two or three other specimen trees, could be planted on this new grass extension, which we think would considerably enhance the beauty of the garden. There are several large flowering shrubs, now overcrowded and getting ruined, which should be transplanted to more suitable positions, notably the Ghent Azaleas and one or two ordinary Azaleas. This should be done next Autumn.
The summer-house and garden seats want overhauling. This work is urgent. A few more garden seats should be provided, and at least half a dozen erected in the bush.
BUILDINGS
The Gables: This has a tenant in and we have not inspected, but the hedges around the property have recently been trimmed, the paths cleaned up, and the place looks spick and span.
The Bungalow: The building is in fair condition, the papering of a room, a little paint, and small repairs to the spouting, will make it good. The electric range, copper and tubs, having been removed, these will require to be replaced. The garden and shelter hedges need trimming up and grass cut and fences repaired.
The Vinery: This is a well constructed house, in excellent order, and only requires painting periodically to keep it in first class condition.
Conservatory and begonia House: This is in fair order. Some repairs are necessary. It requires painting.
Propagating House: This also requires painting; otherwise this is in good condition.
Potting shed: We advise this be removed to a more suitable position, one of greater privacy. This building and the out-door frames are in fair order, but are in the wrong place for a public park, and are too small for requirements.
Motor garage Near Gate: We advise this building be removed to a position at the back of the trees, near the south-east end of the old barn, to be used as an implement, tool, potting shed, and general purposes for the permanent staff. This building to be efficiently screened from public view. The old potting shed could be attached to this building as an office and store-room for records, seeds, spraying materials, etc. A private room of this nature is essential.
Old Stables and Barn: The group of buildings comprising the above are in a dilapidated condition, and should be removed. Some of the iron and best of the doors and timber might be used to advantage in the construction of temporary conveniences for the public. The old building adjoining the dairy at back of the house, we think should also be removed. It is in bad condition and a source of danger from fire.
The Homestead: We are not reporting on, presuming you will be getting a more expert report than we would be able to furnish.
CONSERVATORY
This is well stocked with suitable plants for requirements, and features of the place at this time of the year.
RHODODENDRONS
If the Board finally decide to adopt the site that has been recommended for the Sanders Rhododendron Dell, then a great deal of preparatory work will be necessary, such as digging, draining, fencing, etc. There is a swampy area between the old Park boundary and the Brooklands lake, eminently suitable for a sunken bog or iris garden. We suggest this work be put in hand as opportunity offers.
CONNECTING PATHS
There are three paths in the Park, that can quite easily be extended into Brooklands.
No 1. is the lower bush path starting at the steps by the Tea House. This goes right through the park bush, and can be carried on through the bush in Brooklands, on the racecourse side of the lake, as far as the bridge.
No 2. is on the Western side of the arm of water beyond the boat house. This can be taken right on, following the bank at the Western side of the lake, and merging into another path on the hillside, right in front of the homestead
No 3. is what we know as the “totara” walk. This can be extended along the hillside, under the park-like trees growing in No. 1 paddock, and thence on until it junctions with No. 2 in front of the house. From this path, a beautiful elevated view will be had of the bush, lake and proposed Rhododendron Dell.
We are making no report on that portion of the estate between the main drive and Brooklands Road, unless you desire us to do so. We think cattle and other large stock should not be allowed in the paddocks where English trees are growing. Breeding ewes and lambs should be used to graze in these parts.
We think we have given you a fairly full and detailed report of Brooklands as it is, and our suggestions for its improvement, and we think the suggested work will take two or three years to carry through. This, of course, depends on the amount of labour that will be available to assist the permanent staff.
Thomas Horton F.R.H.S T. C. Boulton
Collection of Puke Ariki (Ref: ARC2003-860/1).
Brooklands Transfer. TH, March 12, 1934
“Brooklands” Opened
LARGE GATHERING OF CITIZENS
Sunshine and the Song of Birds
IMPRESSIVE CEREMONY ON THE LAWNS
Inspiring address by Governor-General
The glorious sunshine in which the country was bathed on Saturday afternoon was in striking contrast to the dismal prospect of a fine day which the weather of Friday afternoon and evening presented for the opening of ‘Brooklands” on the following day, And the hopes had slumped badly then, they were at once revived when Saturday broke a perfect day and remained so throughout. So the ceremony which had been so well planned for the handing over by the trustees of the estate of the property of “Brooklands” to the borough of New Plymouth as a public reserve, and its official opening as such by his Excellency the Governor-General, Lord Bledisloe, was carried out in its entirety without the necessity of any modification and in complete conformity with the program of proceedings that have been arranged. The ceremony was a simple one, but was made appropriately impressive by the less conventional character of the proceedings, and with a recognition of the spiritual significance of the gifts of Nature that is scarcely usual on ceremonial occasions.
Tribute was paid to the maker of the garden, appreciation expressed of the action of the trustees of the estate in handing over the property to the public, and thanks returned to them for the wonderful gift to the town by its chief representatives; and in declaring the property open as a public reserve Lord Bledisloe struck a high note of inspiration from the love of Nature’s gifts, and in a blaze of golden sunshine, to the accompaniment of the liquid notes of some of the loveliest of New Zealand’s native birds, “Brooklands,” which for the past half-century had been a private garden, became a public reserve for all time for the people of New Plymouth.
THE GATHERING CROWDS
LARGE ASSEMBLAGE ON LAWNS
PRELIMINARIES TO PROCEEDINGS
It soon became evident at an early hour on Saturday afternoon that New Plymouth was going to do honor to the memory of the man who made “Brooklands” and to show appreciation of the action of his executors in making the beautiful property the heritage of the people of the district for all time. Crowds wended their way to the gardens, some in cars, some by bus, and many on foot, and when the time arrived for the ceremony to commence there was a gathering of several thousands of citizens surrounding the lawn upon which the dais had been erected for the occasion. To the left of the dais was the special accommodation for the invited guests, while on the right was the gallery erected for the choir, and the public stretched away across the lawns beyond the begonia house. So well planned had the arrangement been that everything worked smoothly, and during the gathering of the assemblage the Taranaki Regimental and New Plymouth Municipal Band (under Captain F. W. G. M’Leod) played a program on the lawn little distant from the Dais. The High School cadets, under Major V. E. Kerr, paraded and mounted the guard of honour for the Governor General. Photographers were busy all over the grounds taking pictures of the gathering crowds and the incidents connected with the proceedings.
When the Governor General and Lady Bledisloe arrived accompanied by Captain Tweedie, A.D.C., they were met by the Mayor of New Plymouth (Mr. E. R. C. Gilmour), the chairman of the Pukekura Park Board (Mr. J. M’Leod), the member for the district (Mr. S. G. Smith, MP.), and Mr. Truby King, representing the family of the late Mr. Newton King.
The band played the National Anthem, and after His Excellency had inspected the guard of honour the vice-regal party was escorted to the enclosure, where the members of the late Mr. King’s family were presented to Lord and Lady Bledisloe, who were then escorted to the special seats on the dais. Here a beautiful bouquet was presented to Lady Bledisloe by Miss Lynette King, her Excellency showing her appreciation of the gift by kissing the child.
THE CEREMONY
PRAYER AND THANKSGIVING
The ceremony proper thereupon commenced, Archdeacon Evans leading the assemblage in a prayer of thanksgiving for the gift, the givers and the recipients, followed with the Lord’s Prayer and a silence of two minutes in memory of the late Mr. and Mrs. Newton King. The prayer offered was as follows: “Almighty and most merciful Father: the creator and Preserver of this wonderful universe; the author and Giver of every good and perfect gift, we thank Thee for preparing so wonderful world for Thy creatures to dwell upon. “Thou makest the outgoings of the morning and evening to praise Thee.” All Thy works proclaim Thy goodness and mercy. We thank Thee for all the provisions Thou hast made in Nature for the happiness of mankind; for the life giving lights on the sun, for the silver beams of the moon, and for the distant stars that guide the wanderers on their way. We thank Thee for the cleansing seas; for the flowing rivers; For the trees, and flowers, and green grass that beautify the earth; for the changing seasons that bring joy and plenty to us all; and for the myriad voices in which nature hymns her gratitude to Thee. We thank Thee, O Lord, to-day for the gift of this beautiful addition to our Park, and pray for a blessing upon the givers and receivers. May this place, so full of happy memories, be made a blessing to all who shall visit it. May the many tokens of Thy goodwill and blessing which we see around us be a great inspiration to us all, leading us to praise and magnify Thy Holy Name. Through Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior – Amen.
The Music
The assemblage led by a large choir and orchestra, which included all the pupils of the Girls High School and representatives of New Plymouth musical organizations and church choirs, sang two verses of Kipling’s “Recessional,” and after thanks had been given by the chief citizens for the gift of the property they also sang two verses of the hymn. “Now thank we all our God.” After the Governor-General’s address in officially opening the grounds, the choir under the direction of Mr. R. Laurie Cooper, sang Te Deum Laudamus, to the setting by Jackson.
Greater Than Monetary Gift
In formally handing over the property to the Borough Council on behalf of the trustees of the estate and the members of the family of the late Mr. Newton King, Mr. Truby King traced briefly some of the little-known history of the property. He stated that the first selection for suburban and rural lands in the new settlement was made by ballot in June, 1842, but at the selection of town sections in November, 1841, the first choice was granted Captain King, the chief commissioner of the New Plymouth Company, and the first resident Magistrate at New Plymouth. The privilege was applied to the suburban selection as well, as Captain King also acquired, by choice, the 50 acres adjoining the town belt, which became known as “Brooklands.” The late Captain King was unrelated to the family of Mr. Newton King except in name. Captain King’s father, Mr. George Cutfield King, was granted 250 acres by the Government, and that section extended from Frankley Road and included what is now known as “Maranui.”
On his death the property was cut up, and in 1888 a portion of it was purchased by Mr. Newton King, so that the place had been in the family for nearly half a century. “As you see it to-day,” said the speaker, “it is very different from what it was at that time.” It had evolved to its present state through a process of transition and development and not so much according to any design or plan made at the beginning which was to produce the result seen to-day. Gradually orchard gave way to trees and flowering plants, and these again to flower garden beds; “but it was all done under the guidance of my father,” said Mr. King, “with the expert assistance of Mr. Boulton as head gardener, who is still on his job to-day.” (Applause).
The late Mr. King, said the speaker, was a great lover of flowers, and was passionately fond of his garden. Nothing gave him greater pleasure than to allow those less fortunate than himself to share in the pleasure of his garden, and for that reason he made a practice of throwing “Brooklands” open to the public periodically. Of all the many and varied activities of his father, said Mr. King, no investment gave him such a return or was attended with so few disappointments as his garden. As trustees of his estate it seemed to the speaker and his brother Eliot that they could best give effect to their father’s wish to do something to improve Pukekura Park by handing over “Brooklands” to the borough for the enjoyment of the public, for in the difficult times like the present the providing of the monetary gift as in the will meant a postponement of the bequest for many years. In giving “Brooklands” they were not only carrying out his wish, but to the fullest and highest degree by making the acquisition of “Brooklands” for all time of much greater value than a monetary gift could be worth. (applause). In handing over “Brooklands” the members of the family did not part with what had been their home without a deep feeling of regret. It held for them all many deep and happy associations, but they were glad to know that the merging of the property with the beautiful Pukekura Park was for the purpose of administrative control. “Brooklands” would always be “Brooklands,” and it would always retain its own identity. He therefore had great pleasure in handing over to the Mayor, for the people of New Plymouth, the property of “Brooklands” as a gift from his father’s estate. (Applause).
Commemorating Great Gift
The gift to the public was acknowledged firstly by the Mayor, then by the chairman of the Pukekura Park Board, and also by Mr. S. G. Smith, M.P., on behalf of the citizens of the New Plymouth electorate.
In his address of thanks the Mayor said:
It affords me very great pleasure to accept on behalf of the people of New Plymouth this wonderful gift.
Nearly 59 years ago, several of the pioneers of this town, amongst them Mr. R. C. Hughes, whom I am pleased to see with us to-day (applause) commenced the great work of transforming what was then a piece of waste land into the thing of beauty it is to-day—beautiful Pukekura Park. On May 29, 1876, the first trees were planted in Pukekura. That day has proved to be a memorable one in the history of the borough.
To-day is an equally historic occasion for we are commemorating the gift of an area as great as that of Pukekura Park—an area already complete in all respects as a Park, and in its own way equal in beauty with Pukekura, which it immediately adjoins, and of which it forms a natural extension. With the addition of this area, New Plymouth will have a Park second to none in the Dominion, comprising over 100 acres, and situate almost within a stone’s throw of the central portion of the town.
No finer gift could have been thought of. “Brooklands” has always been one of the show spots of New Plymouth. The late Mr. Newton King played a very important part in the development of this town and district and in his lifetime he used to delight in throwing these grounds open to the public on certain Sundays throughout the year. Now that he has passed away and these grounds have been handed over to the people, this great Park will be for him a wonderful and lasting memorial. On behalf of the people of New Plymouth I most sincerely thank the family of the late Mr. King and the trustees of the estate for this great gift.
We accept the gift, and with it the responsibilities which attach thereto. “Brooklands” and Pukekura together form a goodly heritage for the people of this district for all time.
The people to-day gladly recognise that as these Parks are theirs to enjoy, so they are theirs to maintain and improve, and this sentiment will without any doubt whatsoever descend from generation to generation. May “Brooklands” and Pukekura be and remain things of beauty and a joy for ever.
“In conclusion,” said the Mayor, “it is my great privilege to cordially welcome your Excellencies to-day, and to express on behalf of the citizens of the town our grateful and intense pleasure at your presence among us on this important occasion, and to again assure you. as the representative of his Majesty the King, of our sincere and lasting loyalty and devotion to the throne.”
Administrative Custodianship
Mr. McLeod said it was his great pleasure, as chairman of the Pukekura Park Board, to accept the administration and custodianship of this beautiful Park, for a description of which words failed him. While many persons were familiar with the beautiful surroundings immediately around the house, many were quite unfamiliar with the beauties there were beyond, right up to the “Highland” estate. The whole town had always had a pardonable pride in “Brooklands,” from its scenic and historic point of view, and the late Mr. King had derived a great deal of his pleasure in the place by sharing the grounds with his fellow townspeople. He had a great deal to do with the advancement of this province, perhaps more than anyone who had lived in the province.
Though he was well known in the town, he was perhaps better known in the more remote parts such as the Ohura, where he himself had been a real pioneer; but no work he had done had created such a lasting memorial to himself as the development of the beautiful grounds which that day were being handed over to the people of New Plymouth. Although the development had come gradually, it had been a result of the guiding hand and long vision of its owner. The responsibility of the new owners would not be lightly undertaken. They recognised there would be criticism, much of it, perhaps, of a helpful nature, for as time went on there were bound to be changes. Nothing would be done, however, that would interfere with the natural beauties of the surroundings. (Applause). And nothing would be done to interfere with the native bush within the property. The speaker pointed out that around the whole of that bush there would be planted belts to protect the bush from what were termed “ground draughts.”
He also stated that though the public might not be aware of it, the Newton King trustees had also given an area of four or five acres of bush beyond the immediate boundary of the homestead property, and to give access to it, and make the whole one large reserve, Messrs. List and Wilkinson had given an area of seven and a-half acres of the “Highland” estate to connect with this and the upper area of the estate. (Applause.) That was a wonderful piece of bush that had not yet been opened up. The speaker expressed the appreciation of the board of the action of the trustees in transferring the cash bequest from the estate into something which money could never have bought, and in the name of the committee and the people they represented he thanked them for their wonderful gift.
An Asset to the Dominion
Mr. Smith said he was proud to be associated with this occasion as the representative of the people of this district in Parliament, and also as chairman of the Education Board, to represent the children of this district in the welcome extended to their Excellencies to New Plymouth. Mr. Smith spoke of the great interest in the unemployed of the Dominion evinced by their Excellencies, and of the wise counsel and helpfulness of his Excellency during the time the speaker had charge of the administration of that department of the Government’s work. Both their Excellencies had shown a very practical sympathy with the unfortunate unemployed of the country.
Recently, said the speaker, he had had the privilege of participating in a ceremony held for the purpose of thanking their Excellencies for their gift to the country of the property at Waitangi, whereat the Treaty of Waitangi had been signed. That was an event of Empire significance. To-day they were assembled to thank the trustees of Newton King estate for their magnificent gift to this town. The speaker referred to the legislation which had to be passed before the gift could be made possible, and he pointed out that Parliament was very careful always to scrutinise all “promoted” legislation, and every possible investigation was made into this matter before the Bill was passed.
The trustees of the estate, the seaside committees who had given up their interests in the bequests in order to make this wonderful property available to the borough, had all played their part, but the speaker said he wished to pay tribute to the town clerk (Mr. F. T. Bellringer), who was one of the most efficient local body officers he had ever met in the course of his public life. (Applause.) The speaker said he could appreciate something of the feelings of the members of the late Mr. King’s family in parting with this wonderful property, which was now passing out of their immediate control.
When he first met the late Mr. King in public life he was a political opponent of the speaker, but he never found him anything but a sport and a gentleman. Side by side with him in his work in this place and for the community there had been Mrs. King, and the speaker said he also wished to publicly acknowledge the part she had played as a good wife, a great mother and a fine citizen of this town. In conclusion he returned grateful thanks to the trustees of the estate for handing over this wonderful property to the people of this town, and in doing so they gave it to the Dominion and to all visitors from abroad. He hoped that whatever happened in the future those responsible for its care would always view “Brooklands” from the point of view of a great asset more than a mere garden, and he hoped it would become an increasing attraction to the townspeople and to every visitor to the district.
BENEFICENT PUBLIC GIFT
GOVERNOR-GENERAL’S ADDRESS,
On rising to perform the official act of declaring the grounds open as a public reserve his Excellency the Governor-General said that seldom had the inhabitants of any town met to signalise so beneficent a public gift as that which was so happily being observed that afternoon. The family of the late Mr. Newton King was widely known through two of its members—Sir Truby King and the former owner of this beautiful property. The one had perhaps been the instrument through whom more than anyone else more human lives had been saved, and the other had left what must be an indelible source of continual enjoyment for all time for the fortunate inhabitants of this locality. Proceeding, His Excellency said:
“I cannot conceive any function more thoroughly congenial to me than that which I am invited to perform in declaring this lovely property open to the public as the result of the beneficent bequest of your late, much respected townsman, Mr. Newton King, eventuating in a happy arrangement between the borough and Mcssrs. Truby and Eliot King, as his trustees, favourable alike to both. A ‘Vice-Regal’ opening seems hardly to do this reserve justice for there is something truly regal about it, not only in its appearance and equipment, but in its proprietorship seeing that ever since 1842 when this fertile portion of the Taranaki plain was settled by my fellow West Countrymen from the Old Land, it has been owned by a ‘King.’ No better lot can I wish for it than that it continue to be ‘regal’ in the majesty of its unspoiled beauty and in the deference and respect shown to it by posterity.
“Pukekura Park, aided by the scenic background of the Empire’s most lovely mountain, stands unrivalled among the municipal Parks of this Dominion,” his Excellency continued. “Now that it is supplemented and complemented by this unique property and the valuable link of Native bush supplied by the munificence of Mr. T. C. List and Mr. C. A. Wilkinson, it is safe to say that, unless the ruthless hand of the vandal descends upon it in days to come, no scenic reserve in New Zealand will ever surpass in attractiveness that situate in this delectable valley, which in its comprehensive beauty is henceforth the property of the inhabitants of New Plymouth.
Unique in Two Respects
“New Zealand possesses many outstanding natural advantages for which it may well thank a beneficent providence,” the speaker, proceeded. “Its fertile soil, its almost perfect climate, its standard of health, the physique and wholesome traditions of its people and the hitherto barely tapped wealth of its natural resources. But in two respects it is absolutely unique in the world. One is the number, variety and grandeur of its beauty spots within a relatively small area and the other is its Native bush which has no rival in the world. And there is economic value as well aesthetic delight inherent in Nature’s generous equipment.
“I make bold to utter a prophecy to the truth of which only your grandchildren can confidently testify,’ said his Excellency. “It is that New Zealand’s main source of wealth will not be found in sheep-breeding, goldmining, petroleum wells (laughter) or even dairy farming, but in its tourist traffic for hundreds of thousands will flock here from all over the world to see that sun-kissed land in the Pacific which Nature has most abundantly endowed with her aesthetic jewels. For every £50 that may accrue from the shortsighted felling in face of temporary economic stringency of some forest giant such as the great kauris of the Waipoua forest, at least a million pounds is lost to posterity in the permanent commercial value of the natural beautification of the Dominion, quite apart from the spiritual inspiration which its contemplation evokes in every normal civilised being.”
A Centre of Enlightenment
“And why should not New Plymouth be the centre of enlightenment for this purpose to the whole Dominion,” his Excellency asked, “radiating sanity and foresight as well as a love of the beautiful, bringing to men’s hearts and minds the pure happiness and mental peace which flows from contact with unspoilt nature and an intimate knowledge of her incomparable treasures. New Plymouth is well fitted for this much needed pioneer task. Her children are trained in the schools to know and to love Native plants and to cultivate thereby that capacity for observation which is a priceless equipment for every vocation in life. She has a sufficient rainfall, which while promoting growth is also some safeguard against destruction by fire, an equable climate, a rich, deep porous soil and a volcanic subsoil. In the matter of variety of types of indigenous timber trees and plants she is ideally situated in a geographical sense. Here North meets South and sub-tropical and temperate plants alike flourish in profusion—plants characteristic of the flora of both islands. It is significant that here in this generously equipped reserve is to be found, close to the extreme southern limit of its natural habitat, the largest, and symmetrically the most perfect, Puriri in the Dominion, and what tree can claim in its durable and fine grained timber, its fliage, its flowers and its fruit, greater allround beauty or utility? You have, too, tree ferns and todeas of a size and quality which even Westland would find it difficult to emulate.
A Word of Warning
“I see around me,” said Lord Bledisloe,” not merely Native bush and well-trimmed English lawns, but also fine speciments of exotic trees imported from Great Britain and elsewhere 90 years ago, the most striking being the great Spanish chestnut with a lateral spread of 90 feet—a truly wonderful tree, and I can cay so with confidence, because I have on my family estate the oldest and finest grove of Spanish chestnuts in England, containing one tree of 24 feet girth at breast height but none with such far spreading lateral branches as yours. In this connection I may Venture to utter a word of warning, although conscious that it is unnecessary to do it, so far as your present enlightened borough authorities are concerned. It is this. Do not on any account, and however great the temptation may be, mix up your Native and your exotic trees, even if a love of the Old Land or a pride in the “Devon, glorious Devon” of your ancestors should stir up sentiment in favour of incursions of the latter into the sacred precincts of the former. If you or your children effect this promiscuous intercourse this magnificent environment of pure Native bush will be for ever ruined in the eyes not only of expert botanists but of those who love symmetry and arboreal compatibility and who deem Nature’s primeval plan to be better even than that of the most experienced landscape gardener.
“Just as well nigh on a century ago your pioneer forefathers made English homes and clustered round English firesides amid New Zealand surroundings so let New Zealand Native bush continue to Constitute, without exotic adulterant, the verdant belt of this reserve, however much you may Anglicise the area which it encloses.
“Finally,” said his Excellency, “let me exhort you to encourage the birds, and especially the bellbirds, and other Native songsters. Half the joy of country life is furnished by the delicate beauty of colour, conformation and song of the birds. But birds need for their sustenance and happiness nectar and berries, and if they are to thrive and add to human joyfulness trees and plants which can furnish them mutt be adequately provided.
‘I now declare ‘Brooklands’ reserve open to the public,” concluded his Excellency, “and trust that it may be a source of health, happiness and recreation, physical, spiritual- and mental, to people of all classes, and ages belonging to both races, for many generations to come.” (Applause.)
Presentation Programme
On the conclusion of his address his Excellency was presented by the Mayor with a specially bound copy of the souvenir programme, and in acknowledging the gift Lord Bledisloe said he wished to congratulate those who had prepared such a memento of the occasion. Apart from the excellent letterpress contained in the programme there were some of the finest landscape photographs he had ever seen (and he was able to speak with some knowledge of photography) in any publication. He said he would value the gift very much.
The official ceremony concluded with the singing of the National Anthem, led by the choir and orchestra.
The members of the Borough Council, the members of the Park Committee and the invited guests were then presented to their Excellencics and all were then the guests of the committee at afternoon tea served in the residence, the rooms of which had been most tastefully decorated for the occasion with flowers from “Brooklands,” Pukekura Park and the nurseries of Messrs. Duncan and Davies. A happy and informal time was spent here, and then Lord and Lady Bledisloe walked through the grounds of “Brooklands” to Mr. T. C. List’s “Maranui” property, leaving from Avenue Road on their return to the North Egmont Hostel.
Altogether the afternoon’s proceedings were carried out with care for every detail, and the occasion will remain a happy memory for all who participated in it.
Afternoon tea was served to the public in the romantic setting “under the spreading chestnut tree.’
RELIC AT “BROOKLÅNDS”
CANNON FROM HARRIET WRECK.
AN AMUSING TRADITION.
If it is not the most beautiful of the objects at “Brooklands” a cannon which rests in the old fireplace, the only surviving part of Captain Thomas King’s home, is certainly one of the most mysterious.
It has been there ever since anybody connected with “Brooklands” can remember but how and where it was acquired is not known. No one can say whether it was acquired by the late Mr. Newton King or by the former owner of the estate, Captain King.
It is, however, stated that the cannon is a relic of the barque Harriet which was wrecked on the Harriet Beach, near Rahotu, some years before the first colonists arrived in Taranaki.
To sight-seers the cannon has always been of great interest, and in fact there grew up an amusing tradition about it. The tradition as related by Mr. Newton King to numerous visitors was as follows:—Soon after the wreck of the Harriet the captain was standing on the beach watching his ship being battered to pieces. A bystander asked him why he was so disconsolate to which captain replied that he was not worrying so much about the loss of his ship, as the fate of a cannon on board. A Māori on the beach, hearing this, immediately plunged in, and battled his way through the breakers to the ship, bringing the cannon ashore.
“And,” Mr. Newton King used to say. “if you look closely you will see the teeth marks where the Māori brought the cannon ashore in his mouth.”
Fate of the Brooklands Homestead
CONFERENCE BETWEEN THE MEMBERS OF THE NEW PLYMOUTH BOROUGH COUNCIL AND THE PUKEKURA PARK COMMITTEE – April 12, 1934.
Present:- His Worship the Mayor (Chairman), Crs. Amoore, Anderson, Brown, Darby, Grayling, Hill, Smith and Stainton (New Plymouth Borough Council) Messrs J . McLeod C. E. Bellringer, E. king, W.F. Short, F. Parker and T. Horton (Pukekura Park Committee).
Apologies were received for the absence of Messrs E. J. Carr and V. C. Davis.
- The Conference considered most carefully and exhaustively the question of utilising in some way for public purposes the Homestead at Brooklands either on its present site or by utilising the materials for the erection of a Teahouse or Pavilion, but that reluctantly came to the conclusion that no such course was feasible.
Some of the reasons leading to this decision were as follows:—
- The use of the building as a Mothercraft Home as desired by the Plunket Society is undesirable, In that:—
- the building is in the centre of a Park and it would be necessary, in order to enable the building to be used for the purpose mentioned, for an area of ground to be enclosed therewith for domestic purposes, and to ensure the privacy of the patients. To do so would seriously detract from the value and beauty of the existing gardens as a Park;
- the use of the building for the purpose mentioned would mean that the Park drives would require to be open for the use of tradesmen’s vehicles;
- the building, which is of wood and was erected many years ago, would require a very heavy expenditure to recondition it for the purpose mentioned, and, in addition, the annual maintenance charges would be very great;
- the use of the building for any purpose other than as a Tea Kiosk, Art Gallery, Botanical Museum or similar public purpose would destroy the Parklike atmosphere of the Reserve.
- The objections set out in paragraph (1) apply equally to the suggestion for the use of the building as an Eventide Home of Rest or Convalescent Home for Old Ladies.
- the use of the building as an Art Gallery or Botanical Museum is not feasible, In that:—
- the building being of wood in a very dry condition, the risk of valuable paintings or other works of art being destroyed in a fire would be too great fora public body to accept. Possible donors of works of art would also be deterred by this risk from adding to any collection established.
- apart from the question of fire risk, the Council is not in a position to Incur the great expense of reconditioning the building, purchasing paintings and other works of art and providing a Caretaker for an Art Gallery.
- The demolition of the building for the purpose of using the materials for the erection of a Tea Kiosk or pavilion is not desirable, In that:-
- a building of this nature at Brooklands is not necessary at present, and, if erected some time in the future, should be of permanent material to give a long life with a minimum expense for annual upkeep.
The Conference also considered the question of whether for sentimental reasons the building should not be retained in its present position. In view of the age of the building, and the materials of which it is constructed, it was recognised that it was only a matter of time when the building would deteriorate to such an extent as to compel its demolition. No good purpose would, therefore, be served by leaving It for a period which, after all, would be a very limited one, but one in which the annual maintenance costs would be heavy. - It was also felt by the members of the Conference that the substantial extensions of the lawns in conjunction with the judicious planting of a limited number of specimen trees and shrubs thereon similar to the existing lawns, which would be possible after the removal of the Homestead and the vegetable garden area immediately behind the building, would materially enhance the whole of the outlook from the point of view of a public Park.
- That after the most careful consideration of the whole of the circumstances, and with the utmost regret that no other course is possible, this Conference is unanimously of the opinion that Homestead at Brooklands should be removed.
Thomas Horton's 1946 Park Assessment Letter
The Chairman, Pukekura Park Board, Nov. 1946.
Dear Sir,
Realising the deterioration that is rapidly going on in this Park and Brooklands, I desire to draw your attention to some of the most urgent work that requires doing. The fact is, that practically all the work is more or less urgent and as there is so much requiring attention, I suggest the most urgent be put in hand as early as possible, (say during 1947) and the balance might be spread over a period of say 4 or 5 years.
The time to complete the whole of the improvements suggested, will of course depend on the amount of money and labour available. Very serious further deterioration will take place, in fact several of the buildings will become useless, if neglected for a longer period.
During the war years practically nothing was spent on the maintenance of buildings and permanent structures, and prior to the war, the annual monetary grant from the Council was too small for the satisfactory maintenance of such buildings etc.
I know that to carry out my recommendations it will require a large sum of money, but I feel it to be my duty to draw your attention to the matter, and after all, (no matter what the cost) is Pukekura not worth it?
The Park has a reputation far beyond our own country. If we are to maintain that reputation it will be necessary to carry out the works suggested and when these are all completed, an increased staff will be essential to maintain it as it should be maintained. We have always worked with too small a staff and much maintenance and improvements that should have been done, have simply had to be left undone. The war and the shortage of permanent labour, has to an extent contributed to the deterioration referred to. There is sufficient repair work to keep a handy man, such as a rough carpenter and painter, permanently on the staff. When there is a bush and forest area of the Park and the parts where pines and other exotics are growing that should have regular attention, requiring the services of two more men.
If the staff could be increased by these three men, then the whole Park could and would be maintained much more efficiently than hitherto. First of all are the houses and other buildings.
The Superintendents house. This requires two coats of paint and new spouting and a little interior painting. Wood, tool shed and gates also require painting. Estimate of cost £55
House at Brooklands known as The Bungalow. House, shed and gates all require painting and new spouting, new flushing and lavatory outfit. £60
The Gables. This being a very old building and minor repairs only having been done over the past 15 years, requires a very extensive overhaul. Some floor joists have decayed, some weather boards require replacing, windows and doors adjusting, chimney and fireplace must have some attention. The roof leaks badly in places and the house, shed and gate requires 3 coats of Paint. £250
Brooklands. The implement shed, office lavatories and gates require painting, at least two coats. £50
Pukekura. The Pavilion in the Sports Ground requires painting and new spouting, boiler room put in better condition and the concrete floor re-surfaced. £35
Reporters room, ticket Boxes. Railing around the playing area and gates require painting very badly. £50
The Engine and Implement shed. Much of the iron is decaying, new iron required and the shed thoroughly overhauled. £15
Band Rotunda. This badly requires painting and roof inspected for leaks in the iron. £25
Mens Lavatorys. These are in a deplorable condition and I suggest that a new building is absolutely necessary. I can’t enumerate all the details of their deterioration and unsuitability but advise you to inspect them. Cost £250
The staff room and tool sheds. A new site should be found for this building. The position of the present building is very damp, being under large trees and close to the foot of a hill. Nothing can be kept dry during winter months, and tools get rusty and deteriorate and mens clothing kept there for changes etc., are practically always damp. Cost at least £200
The Ladies Rest Room and Office. These require a complete overhaul, new spouting and painting. £60
Fernery Conservatory Begonia and Propagating Houses. These comprise a group of six glass houses with two potting-sheds attached. These require a complete overhaul. There are many leaks and some broken glass, ventilators are in bad order and all the houses require at least two coats of paint. These buildings have not been repainted since their construction 19 or 20 years ago. Rough estimate £250
Superintendent’s Office. For many years a small room attached to the Ladies Rest Room has been used for this purpose. This is situated in a very shady and damp position and all books, papers and records, are perpetually damp and mouldy and many books are absolutely ruined. In spite of using a small radiator during the winter and wettest periods, it is most unhealthy and unsuitable. I suggest that provision be made as early as possible for a new office. Probable cost £100
The Boat House. The present house is beyond repair and a new building is definitely necessary. The late chairman and myself went into this matter some time ago and we agreed that something was urgently required to be done to provide better accommodation for the boats. but on account of the shortage of material and high cost of labour, it was decided to leave the matter in abeyance for a time. This may cost about £150
This brings us to the latest of the buildings in the Park.
There are several other jobs I wish to draw your attention to.
The Pillions at the Main entrance and the wall in Fillis St., are getting smutty and black and should be cleaned and re-surfaced, and the doors or gates in this wall badly require painting. The Main gates require painting too. The iron work has all been cleaned and prepared ready for this to be done. Say £35.
The Main Drive and Parking area is beginning to break up and should be re-surfaced and put in good condition. Approx. cost £25
Terrace seating needs attention. Many new blocks are required to replace those decaying, and broken seats must be renewed. Cost £30
The Poet’s Bridge. As you know the framework of this bridge is constructed of steel. This steel work in many parts has rusted and corroded. This requires to be removed and cleaned off, preparatory to treating with a coat of material for the purpose, and then the whole bridge painting with two coats of paint. If this is well and faithfully done, it should maintain the bridge for many years in good condition. Approx. cost £60 to £80
The Boat—Shed Bridge. This is the smaller bridge by the boat shed. This has been partly repaired, but requires further strengthening and painting two coats. £25
Brooklands Lake. This requires another clean out. Rushes have grown and developed there to an incredible extent and should be removed. The foot—bridge over this lake has been torn or pulled to pieces by vandals and what bit of framework is left is decaying. I do not recommend its re-construction, as it served no very useful purpose and would be very expensive. £100
The main Lake. The streams, (one from the Highlands and one from the Brooklands Road areas) that feed this lake have brought down such large quantities of silt since the lake was last cleaned out, that it is almost filling up the water ways and the upper reaches of the lake. It is one of the most serious problems we have to contend with.
The dam constructed to trap the silt at the Brooklands Road end, is not capable of holding it back. The water after heavy flood rains comes in with such a rush from the Vogeltown and Brooklands Road areas, that although the dam catches a good deal the silt, the bulk of it is carried into the lake and deposited there.
This deposit has got to be removed sooner or later or the trouble will extend and it will be more difficult to contend with. There must be at least a thousand yards of silt already there.
I think the removal of this is too big a job altogether for men and barrows and that machinery will be necessary to remove it. The undertaking is altogether too big for our own staff to attempt and as I think it requires the services an Engineer. I suggest that the Borough Council be asked to allow their Engineer to report on the work or perhaps to undertake it. £500
Fences gates and Park Entrances. There are approximately 4 to 4 ½ miles of post and wire fencing around the boundaries and various other parts of the Park. Hundreds of battens require replacing, some posts and strainers renewed and wires tightened up. There are 27 gates or other entrances to the Park and must be kept in good order and condition. Cost to put in order £40
The Fordson Tractor and Mowing Machines are now very old and the periodical cost of repairs to these machines is heavy. I suggest in the not too far distant future, new and modern machinery to replace them be procured. £500
Seats. At least half a dozen new portable seats are required in Pukekura Park. £40
I cannot close this schedule of proposed improvements, without reference to the Pine Trees.
These are Pinus radiata and they are growing old and dangerous. They are nearly all of them over 60 years of age and some are 70 years old and as a result of old age are getting thin and grey in their foliage and as they have practically ceased growing, all the lower branches and many of the higher ones have died, and periodically they break off and fall to the ground and so are a danger to pedestrians.
This variety of pine matures at thirty-five to forty-five years of age and after that they deteriorate. What should be done about them is a matter for you to consider and decide.
I might mention that where any group of Pines have been removed in the Park, there is now growing groups of native and other trees, many of which are permanent, tall growing, skyline conifers. They are all doing remarkably well, and hill tops formerly growing old ragged looking pine trees are now being covered with permanent heavy foliaged and beautiful trees, which ultimately will be the admiration of everybody. After only being planted a few years, many are twenty to thirty feet high.
( signed )
Yours faithfully,
Thomas Horton
Collection of Puke Ariki (Ref: ARC2004-248/3).
Saxton/ Goodwin Report - 1951
Graham Bequest
REPORT ON NEEDS OF PUKEKURA PARK
COMMITTEE CONSIDERS
33 SUGGESTIONS, TH, November 16, 1951
THIRTY-THREE different projects of a total cost, based on rough estimates only, of nearly £50,000 were placed before the Pukekura Park Committee at its meeting in New Plymouth last night when the committee was considering how the bequest of approximately £16,000 left to the Park by the late Mrs. L. R. Graham would be spent. The projects were contained in a report prepared by the committee
chairman, Mr. D. F. C. Saxton, and the Park curator, Mr. J. Goodwin. It was not suggested that they represented a definite programme or that all of them be undertaken and apart from a decision to build a new administrative block, for which tenders will be called, no action was taken at the meeting on the report.
Mr. Saxton said that they did not include any maintenance work and it might well be that other members of the committee. or of the public might have ideas which could be added to the list for consideration.
Some or the projects were listed under the heading of necessary work; others could be regarded as not urgent but of value in increasing the beauty, amenities, and in certain cases, the revenue of the Park.
The planting and replanting proposals were extensive and involved planned development over a period of years. Much of this was absolutely necessary. The life or the pine trees that had been the background of the Park tor 70 years was drawing to a close and section by section blocks of pines would have to be removed and replaced by other flora. In due course nearly all of both sides of the main lake valley would have to be replaced block by block with predominantly native trees similar to the planting already done in the area between the Horton Walk and the Fillis Street gully.
“My own view is that our planting policy far transcends in importance any of the other proposed man-made amenities and should be given appropriate attention,” Mr. Saxton said. “Whether we like it or not, the character of the Park must undergo a profound change in the replacement of the pine trees. With their high and rugged grandeur these trees really made Pukekura Park, in combination with the lakes and tree ferns but their comparatively short effective life cycle of 70 to 80 years makes it inadvisable to replant pines of this type.”
FUTURE PARK
“The future Pukekura Park can be visualised by standing in the centre of the Poet’s Bridge and looking north. From the top of Cannon Hill to the left of this perspective is old Pukekura Park, with its rugged, sombre dignified background of pine trees. To the right of Cannon Hill will be a glimpse of the new Pukekura Park with its sky line of native and a few exotic trees such as Norfolk pine, cedars and redwoods. The new sky line is more delicate and graceful with its spire effects, but loses the sombre grandeur of the pines.
The transition period will be to some extent an unhappy one. but it is inevitable. Cannon Hill will always be the focal point or most panoramas from any angle in the Park, and the greatest care should be exercised in the choice of trees for this and adjacent localities. Except for the inescapable change mentioned earlier. I suggest the committee should do everything possible to retain to the fullest degree the present character of the Park.” Mr. Saxton continued.
As the committee had rightly eliminated any scheme to admit vehicular traffic through the main valley Of Pukekura Park, Mr. Saxton said, he and Mr. Goodwin had examined what they considered to be the only other possible schemes for admitting traffic to the Park-Brooklands area.
The first was to admit traffic from the top of the racecourse walk, bring it round the crest of the flat area at the top of the eastern side of the valley, and emerge into the parking area to the west of the racecourse grandstands. Such a crescent drive would be reasonably practicable because the area to be traversed had no Important flora on it, the eastern boundary alongside the racecourse was already planted with shelter and background trees, and it would cause only limited interference with the serenity and general atmosphere of the main body of the Park. However, as the object of such a drive would be to obtain a panoramic View of the Park, and as this would not be obtainable because of existing and new essential plantings on the east side of the valley, the proposal was eliminated.
PRACTICABLE ALTERNATIVE
“This left as the second, and, in our opinion, the only other practicable alternative, a drive commencing at the intersection of Brooklands Road and Brooklands private road passing through the present rhododendron dell (in any case landscaping and alteration of this dell is proposed), following round the south side of Brooklands lake to the vicinity of the magnolia campbellii and returning up the hill along the line of the present track, rejoining Brooklands private road near the Gables. There are strong pros and cons to this proposal. Mr. Goodwin and I neither champion nor condemn it. but we feel it is worthy of consideration.” Mr. Saxton said.
He had not mentioned additional grandstand accommodation. because in his opinion grandstands, say, in the horseshoe bend or the pavilion corner would spoil the appearance of the amphitheatre, and on only very few occasions at present was there justifiable demand for such large capital expenditure.
Taking a long term view, however, he recommended that the committee should consider the possibility of cutting back the southern terraces flush with the women’s pavilion. This would not prejudice the plantings on the southern hill and would probably give Just the amount of extra space required on the sportsground for championship athletic purposes.
“Because of the heavy cost of maintaining the sportsground, I further suggest that any major expenditure on the sportsground should be by way of subsidy on efforts made by the various sporting bodies, rather than by unconditional grants,” Mr. Saxton said.
The report listed proposed developments and their approximate costs as follows:-
BUILDINGS
Administrative block (Cost subject to tenders). Women’s rest room near fernery (£500). Replacement of bridge by boathouse (£200). New boathouse (£2,400). Men’s and women’s conveniences near north-east corner of the sportsground (£1,250). Partial reconstruction of fernery and begonia houses (£2,000). Aviary (£1,600). Aquarium (£3,000). Soundshell (£4,000). Extensions to men’s pavilion (£2,500). Pergola and shelter by tea kiosk (£1,000). Conveniences in area between Pukekura Park and Brooklands (£2,800).
OTHER PROJECTS
Playground and conveniences by existing children’s swings (£3,700).
Access to Fillis Street gully and levelling (£250).
Development of Gilbert Street section as commercial caravan Park (£2,800).
Floodlighting sportsground (£3,000).
Future of three areas (on Gover, Rogan and Upjohn Streets) not required for planting. (£3,000 for staff house on one.)
Vehicular road around south side of Brooklands lake (£4,000).
PLANTING AND REPLANTING
Tennis and croquet club area.
Cleaning and planting bed and borders of Brooklands lake, and planting northern and eastern borders; landscaping of rhododendron area; development of sportsground eastern horseshoe as maple or other specialty dell; development of lower racecourse horseshoe as rhododendron dell; development of upper racecourse horseshoe as hydrangea and azalea dell; replanting east Brooklands kohekohe horseshoe and background hill; clearing and replanting of List Street entrance gully; clearing and development of Maranui basin and Maranui horseshoe. (£2,500)
Removal and replacement of existing pine trees in groups in a planned long-distance scheme.
General replacement of poor quality flora in groups in a planned long-distance scheme.
Completion of List street bush walk.
GENERAL
Production and sale of guide book of Pukekura Park and Brooklands. (£300).
Waterfall (£4,000).
Fountain (£3,200).
Goodwin's 1960 Report
Plan for Pukekura Park’s future development, TH, August 12, 1960.
A report made on the future development of Pukekura Park, New Plymouth, by the curator, Mr. J. W. Goodwin, includes plans for extensive tree planting and beautifying of certain areas, new walks, opening up new areas, more lighting effects and further recreation facilities.
The chairman of the Park committee, Mr. D. F. C. Saxton, said today that it had still to be decided how many of the suggestions in the report would be implemented.
Mr. Goodwin reviews the growth of the Park and outlines suggested ways it may be developed.
His recommendations for specific areas include the following:—
Sportsground
Clear overgrowth along enclosure fences, repair fences and strengthen the growth of hedges, plant some bold groups of tree ferns to add character to the plant cover. Remove bamboo and weedy growth and thin to give better trees more room, particularly pohutukawa. Plant skyline trees on top and behind
the eastern and southern terraces, strengthen growth behind western terrace but avoid tall trees which may cast shadows on the cricket wicket.
Fillis Street Gully
Clear specimen trees and where possible prune to single leaders. Plant more native skyline trees. Replant with as comprehensive a range of native plants as is possible.
Fernery Gully
Lower reaches concentrate on fern undergrowth with associate trees. Central area of colourful beds and borders of annual and perennial plants. Upper areas as open and spacious as possible. Feature iris and astilbe for Christmas colour and gradually increase the range and type of low growing materials to give
colour for the greater part of the year. Thin the skyline trees on the hillsides.
West Of Lake
Remove the poorest of the pines in groups sufficiently large to enable replanting of taller trees for skyline effects, while ensuring that remaining groups are sufficiently large to enable felling without damage to younger plantings. This process could take from 25 to 50 years depending on the public safety factor.
Coniferous trees should be according to their ability to withstand wind. A few pine species may be needed but mass planting is not advocated. Lightly thin the existing thuya and redwood near the racecourse.
Above Lake
Thin to encourage the development of existing rimu, miro, tree fern and others. Where room is available, incorporate colourful subjects. Above the boat-shed improve the fern margin along the walks, clear existing matai, rimu and other native trees and where possible plant native plants. On the shoulder
of the hill above, gradually eliminate all rogue totara and replenish with subjects suitable to break the southerly wind.
Fountain Lake
Margins have been planted with hemeracallis, hydrangeas and ferns. There is ample scope in the lake for further fountain and water effects subsidiary to the central feature.
Lower Park
Gilbert Street walk to fountain lake, gradually remove undesirable growth and plant to beautify the approach, plant the slope up to the back of the western terrace, with shade-tolerant shrubs in the foreground and miro and kauri in the background.
Children’s playground, reinforce the shelter from the westerly winds. Introduce colour wherever possible. Central area below the fountain lake, plant more palms in shady areas.
Western Hillside
Camellias have been planted from the Victoria Road entrance near the curators residence to provide colour and check ground draught; plant the hillside above the fountain lake with tree ferns and in the background. When silver poplars fall, replace with medium growing coniferous trees.
Cannon Hill
The lower portion of the western side has been planted with flowering and foliage subjects to supplement existing trees. The top of this hill has been planted with a group of hardy coniferous trees, which will provide skyline and background effects from several prominent parts of the Park.
Old Tennis Court
Some supplementary planting is necessary and a foreground planting of hardy subjects will be necessary some years before the removal of the old hedges on the Victoria Road frontage. It is desirable that a new, colourful and attractive planting should be made inside the Shortland Street entrance.
Lake Margin
Wherever possible, colourful azaleas and other hardy subjects should be planted to give colour and colourful reflections. Some rimu have been opened up on the western hillside and autumn colour planted in open spaces. The pines at the back on this hillside should also be removed in rotational groups as soon as the growth on the old tennis and croquet area reach a reasonable size. Danger factors may necessitate the removal of some of these in the near future, particularly the leaning macrocarpas on the northern end. At this point above the north-western corner of the main lake some tree ferns
will be damaged but these should be replaced and consideration could also be given to the construction of an illuminated waterfall.
Western Boundary
Lawsonia trees are encroaching on the footpath and have been trimmed back for many years. Eventually they will require replacement as they will not refurnish after heavy cutting and in their bushy form are subject to the Cyprus canker disease.
There is little of any value inside and it may be desirable to clear this area and make another shelter planting while the present shelter is intact. On the slopes leading down to the main lake are most of the trees cut back some years ago to improve the view of the mountain.
Practically all the silver birch have died and some oak trees are the only ones worth saving. This area could well be planted up in low growing deciduous trees banked with low growing conifers or evergreens.
Brooklands
Mr. Goodwin points out that Brooklands is different from Pukekura Park and the difference should be preserved.
He says that every effort should be made to preserve and improve the two major features. The last of the old rimu trees has fallen; but the bush area is still a good example of the original New Plymouth native bush. The kohe kohe’s are showing signs that they have reached the end of a life cycle while the undergrowth has deteriorated under the trampling of many feet.
This bush should be preserved as near as possible to the natural state with the eradication of seedling exotics and replenishment where needed by local native trees.
The second feature of Brooklands is the spacious lawns and some magnificent exotic trees. The flower beds are colourful and attractive in season but with the spread of major trees it now seems desirable that the siting of flower-beds should be rearranged in relation to the dominant trees. Walks require re-alignment and the edges more permanently defined. If possible further tree surgery should be carried out and provision made for the possible replacement of lesser trees as some have become infested with borer.
The approach via Brooklands Park Drive and the northern bank to the look-out, require consideration in relation to the Brooklands Bowl area.
The area extending behind the soundshell required some thinning and planting, with the preservation of groups of tree ferns and the distinctive character of the area.
The corner east of the look-out and south of the bowl may well be planted in selected pine species to perpetuate the name “Festival of the Pines” and eventually shelter the soundshell and lake from the southerly wind.
Brooklands Bowl
The first section up the valley from the bowl is predominantly native trees and should be preserved in its present form. The more open area has been planted in exotics for many years and there is considerable scope for clearing and replanting preferably in autumn foliage subjects to supplement the spring and autumn colour of the large Ginkgo tree. Eucalypts have almost all toppled over in the swamp area and eventually should be replaced with medium growing coniferous trees.
Some redwood and cryptomeria have been planted in the upper end of this arm of the valley and more are desirable for the only shelter for this and the central portion of the upper area is that provided by macrocarpa trees in the Highlands School property adjoining the Park boundaries.
It is desirable that a walk should be formed up the central valley and that a branch walk should lead up the side valley leading to Coronation Avenue.
Kaimata Street Frontage
It would be desirable if possible to improve the appearance of the fence but it is felt that the Park would again become a rubbish dump if the fence were removed.
There is the same problem here with the lawsoniana shelter as on the south – western boundary of Pukekura Park. The only satisfactory answer is to clear some of the trees on the inside and plant subjects for the main shelter as soon as possible. When this has grown to a suitable size the old shelter could be removed and replaced with lower growing rhododendrons and camellias which would provide a dense ground cover and beautify the Park as seen from Kaimata Street.
The Western boundary of Brooklands extending down about halfway to the plantations has been rather thickly planted in lawsonia and macrocarpa. The remainder of this boundary is a gully planting of native trees but it will be necessary to clear gorse, blackberry and other rubbish in the central area.
It is desirable to plant some shelter on the north-eastern side of the pine plantation to provide for the future and the eventual removal of the pines as they commence to open up.
Ideas for Pukekura Park - 1968
TH, May 3, 1968.
Provision of a water wheel, a hydraulic ram, animated tableaux and a garden for the blind …these suggestions for the development of Pukekura Park were included in reports presented recently to the Pukekura Park Committee.
The reports were compiled by the deputy director of the city council’s Parks and reserves, Mr A. D. Jellyman; the Park’s curator, Mr G. M. Fuller; and the Parks and reserves technical assistant, Mr C. I. McDowell.
Here are some of their suggestions:
Mr Jellyman
Expansion of the Pukekura and Brooklands Parks areas’ to include all the racecourse area is envisaged by Mr Jellyman.
“I would like to see a far wider use of the racecourse,” he says. If a permanent riding school (based on the paddocks now used for Jumping events) were established, the public could hire horses and traverse the upper reaches of the Park.
Considerable spectator interest could be aroused if a sport such as polo were played at the racecourse. Model aeroplane clubs could use the centre of the racecourse.
PONY TRAIL
Mr Jellyman suggests a pony trail, traversing the Brooklands bush through the “Maranui” area to Welbourn Park.
All public entrances to Pukekura Park should be conspicuous, appealingly landscaped, and tell people
where the various points of interest are and how to reach them.
Picnic areas, including tables and seats and barbecue-incinerators. should be established.
Water flow from the lake could be harnessed to operate a hydraulic ram which would create something with perpetual movement and historical Interest.
A curtain-type waterfall could be sited on Hughes Walk, on the bank near the weeping elm and rubber tree.
ALPINES
The two upper arms of the Stainton Dell area should ultimately be the home of a very fine collection of woodland and moisture-loving plants. If the area on the right of the fernery entrance were reconstructed to double its size and renovated, it would be an ideal site for a collection of Mt Egmont alpine plants.
A “nature trail” system, if adopted, could be of immense benefit to schools.
Selected pieces of play equipment would make the Brooklands Zoo more attractive to children. The area in front of “The Gables” would make an ideal site for a model village and ultimately the rest of the house could accommodate aquariums.
The area just inside the Brooklands Park gates could be effectively developed into a garden for blind people, featuring scented flowers and foliage plants.
Brooklands Park could be a very suitable venue for outdoor exhibitions of sculpture and arts and crafts.
Mr Fuller
The children’s play area is surrounded by areas which hold great potential, says Mr Fuller. He suggests the provision of artificial “animals,” as at Kowhai Park, Wanganui.
The outlet from the fountain lake lends itself to the provision of a water fall which would be visible from the children’s playground if a vista were opened and pathways formed.
Three very fine vistas radiating from the fountain could be opened. The existing vista of the mountain
from the kiosk area should be retained.
CHRISTMAS
A stream cutting across and down one side of the hatchery lawn area would provide a perfect setting for the recently-introduced Christmas feature.
The sunken lawn near the kiosk is within the view of practically everyone who visits the Park and should be developed as a feature of special character.
The fernery has an unsuitable site and is adversely affected by the evergreen trees nearby. The future of the trees could be weighed against the undoubted worth of the fernery.
During the presence of the nativity scene at the Park, the fernery and the kiosk could be opened nightly.
From the Christmas holidays to the end of February, the fernery could be illuminated. “We must ‘sell’ our fernery more effectively and not expect people to hunt so intensively in unfamiliar surroundings. or oblige them to pass closely to what can only be described as a rather sinister-looking toilet,” says Mr Fuller.
Mr McDowell
Eventually a restaurant providing evening entertainment including a tourist souvenir shop could be built says Mr McDowell.
A suitable site for an exhibition hall might be at the southern end of the racecourse. He suggests the same area for the establishment of a transport and technology museum.
More covered shelters, vandal-proof if possible, could be built within the Park.
WHARE
An A-frame building with ample porch would provide shelter at the head of the hatchery lawn. The two main barge boards could be carved and surmounted with a figure to emulate a whare.
Toilet facilities need urgent reconstruction. he says.
The open lakes need urgent bank fortifications to prevent undermining of tree ferns and loss of shady circumferential walks and reflections.
Animated tableaux could be considered in areas such as the ferneries lawn.
If a low retaining wall along one side of the kiosk dell incorporated an open shelter with picnic tables,
people could look out on to a water wheel which would make ideal use of the water in this area.
MUSIC
The synchronisation of the main fountain effects with music seems an admirable suggestion. Besides supplementary jets of water, another consideration would be natural gas flares at water level. If these were not feasible here, they might be installed to light the hatchery lawn.
Below the fountain lake, incorporation of river boulders (after vegetation was cleared) would make a delightful watercourse to the waterfall. Bridges could be designed to spring or leap over the water in Japanese fashion.
Assistance in designing features, especially those of architectural merit, should be sought. Competitions
might be held to obtain the best possible solution for a particular feature.
Additional key staff might include an entertainment and recreation supervisor (for exhibitions, competitions, displays, dances, bands, circuses, sports etc.), a Park ranger (to guide on nature or pony trails and police the Park) and a play leader alternating with Pukekura Park and other play centres within the city.
The sketches below were part of Ian McDowell’s full report which was extensive.
A copy of the 1968 reports including sketches can be found in: Collection of Puke Ariki (Ref: ARC2003-860/4).
Development of the Sunken Dell in front of the Tea House.
Proposed two level building at the south end of hatchery Lawn with access from hatchery lawn and from the lake-side walkway. This was to be a rest area and information centre.
Ian’s vision for the development of the Rogan Street entrances.