The New Zealand Railways Magazine, Volume 7, Issue 5 (September 1, 1932)
A Maori Chief's Yearning
A Maori Chief's Yearning.
There is a tradition which indicates this eye for the fine things of wild nature. A Maori chief, returning to the north from a visit to the Ngati-Raukawa people, halted on a hill where he could view the landscape. Looking back on lovely Papaitonga, shining in the sun, he stretched out his hand and cried: “Farewell, farewell, O Papaitonga! Would that your beauty was the beauty of a woman, then I would seize you in my arms and carry you away with me!”
“It is the dim haze of mystery at adds enchantment”—Rivarol
(Railway Publicity photos.)
New Zealand's first Mystery Train, run to Paraparaumu, 7th August, 1932. (1) The driver receiving instructions at Thorndon Station, Wellington; (2) lunching at Paraparaumu beach; (3) arrival at Paraparaumu Station; (4) the party setting out from the station to the beach; (5) the Mystery Trait on the engine; (6) boiling water in readiness; (7) an incident on the tramp along the beach; (8) baby enjoys the fun; (9) a lift on the (10) homeward bound from Paekakariki.