Other formats

    TEI XML file   ePub eBook file  

Connect

    mail icontwitter iconBlogspot iconrss icon

The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Auckland Provincial District]

Utakura Valley

Utakura Valley, which is 184 miles from Auckland, is situated to the west of Okaihau on the main Kawakawa and Horeke road. As far back as 1883 a block of land was opened in the valley for settlement on the system of deferred payments. To reach the valley three-quarters of a mile of steep hill has to be descended—so steep that, in some places, the descent is one foot in seven; but a new grade, now (early in 1901) in course of formation, will afford an outlet to the westward of Okaihau. The valley contains good agricultural and pastoral land, of fine sandstone formation, and has been proved to be well adapted to the growth of grapes and sub-tropical fruits. Utakura has a post office and a weekly mail, and there is a telegraph office at Okaihau, four miles away. A general store is kept by Mr. Joseph Gower. There is a public hall, which was built by the settlers for school purposes. Much of the land is still in the possession of the natives, who make a living by growing kumeras and corn—two crops that return an extra good profit.