An Ancient Totara.

The party gathered at the Peel Forest settlement (there are a number of houses and baches buried in the depths of the bush there) where they found the bus and cars, and where Mr. McKenzie and his assistants were busily engaged preparing for tea in the community shed built at the end of the track. About 4 p.m. a start was made on the return journey, which led past Commander G. Dennistoun's property, and thence through Geraldine to Orari. This part of the journey— page 47 usually, on most excursions, the least interesting part—had its own particular thrill when a stop was made to view, on Commander Dennistoun's place, a giant totara calculated by competent authorities to be 1500 years old. Towering to well over 100ft. this monster shows a graceful sloping bole that reaches some 20ft. before branching, and which, at 4ft. from the ground, measures 361/2 feet. There are several of these great trees in the vicinity, and these, with several specimens of fine black pine, more than repaid those who threaded their way through the bush to inspect them.

There are numerous attractions, including interesting bird and plant life, to hold the attention of visitors to Peel Forest. Before next season it is hoped to have the lawn tennis courts repaired and put in good order, and a swimming pool built in the creek bed.

On the return journey the excursionists reached the city shortly after 8.30 p.m.

Further excursions have been arranged to this delightful spot, which is already the Mecca of Ashburton bach-lovers. Mr. W. T. Hanna, of the Christchurch railway staff, has been detailed to alternate with Mr. Taylor in personally conducting these trips. “A word of praise” (says the

“‘Mid Nature's old felicities.”
Bland's Wood, at the southern end of Peel Forest, where the excursionists partake of refreshments after their walk through the scenic reserve.

Christchurch Times) “is due to the Railway Department for the excellence of the arrangements made. Nothing was too much trouble to the officials concerned, the result being that everyone was thoroughly pleased with their day's outing.”