The Pamphlet Collection of Sir Robert Stout: Volume 73

A guide for tourists and invalids to the thermal springs and baths

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Te Aroha, New Zealand.

THE SANATORIUM OF TEE MILLION. THE MOST POPULAR HEALTH RESORT OF THE A GUIDE For tourists and Invalids to the Thermal barings and Baths. BY Charles F. Spooler. EDITOR TE AROHA & OHINEMURI NEWS. Printed at the TE AROHA AND OHINEMURI NEWS Office, Published by order of the Te Aroha Hot Springs Domain. Board, 1895.

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Bath Houses, Te Aroha.

Photo by W. Buyne, Hamilton.

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Te Aroha Hot Sprincs Domain.

Photo by W. Bayne, Hamiltion

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Introduction.

Owing to the rapid advancement of Te Aroho, which has now attained a place in the front rank among the health resorts of Australasia, and the frequent appeals made upon the Domain Board for reliable information re the mineral baths and their curative properties, it has been decided to issue this small treatise, so that persons throughout the various Australian colonies and even in places beyond may be made more fully acquainted with Te Aroha and its surroundings, the advantages it offers as a health resort, and the accomodation it provides for invalids and tourists. During the last few years Te Aroha Sanatorium has become famous, owing to the many permanent cures which have been effected by the use of its life-giving waters. Such diseases as, Chronic Rheumatism, Lumbago, Sciatica, Derangements of the Liver and Kidneys, and other kindred complaints, have been proved to quickly yield to the health reviving virtues of the Thermal Springs. This fact is borne out by the testimony of hundreds of invalids who have visited the baths, and after a brief sojourn have returned to their homes restored to perfect health. We commend the claims of Te Aroha to all who need the stimulating influences to be obtained by the use of its waters.

Charles F. Spooner

, Editor, Te Aroha News. Te Aroha, New Zealand,

October, 1895.

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Te Aroha, New Zealand.

Few places of public resort in the Southern Hemisphere have sprung into favour and importance so quickly as Te Aroha. Its fame is now well-known throughout Now Zealand, and is fast extending to the sister colonies. In the near future Te Aroha is destined to become par excellence, the sanatorium of the Southern Hemisphere. Te Aroha is within easy distance of Auckland, being only 115 miles by rail, the express train going right through so that invalids are not troubled by having to change carriages or trains during any part of the journey.

It will be seen by reference to the map showing the various routes to Te Aroha, that the railway traverses the broad acres of the Waikato plains, and for some miles skirts along the banks of the majetic Waikato river, with its broad silvery waters bounded by native bush of everchanging tints, which at every turn of the lino brings some pleasant picture of surprising grandeur to the astonished gaze of the tourist. The train stops at Mercer for 20 minutes to allow travellers time for dinner, and excellent accommodation is to be found at the Railway Refreshment Rooms. At Franklin Junction the train again stops for ten minutes to allow travellers an opportunity of further re-freshment. Te Aroha is reached about 4.15, which gives ample time to enjoy a refreshing bath before dressing for dinner.

The other route shown upon our map, and which is much appreciated by many, is by steamer and coach, via Thames. The Northern Co.'s steamers leave Auckland for Thames daily, fare 7s 6d. The Thames, of itself, offers some attractions to the average globe trotter, it being one of the richest gold mining centres of the colonies. Those interested in that industry would do well to pay the Thames a visit. The principle hotel is the Pacific, which is one of the best appointed houses in the Province, Host Woodward has recently assumed the management and has done much to popularize the hotel, which contains spacious bedrooms, large dining hall, and every adjunct to a first-class hotel. Messrs Ricket and Co. run a daily coach from the Thames to Paeroa connecting with Gallagher's coaches for Te Aroha. Paeroa is the distributing centre of the well-known Ohinemuri goldfields, and is a hive of industry. The mountain scenery of the Rotokuhu Gorge, through which the coach road to Te Aroha passes, is well worth a visit. The hills page break being covered with dense virgin forrest through which a dashing mountain strerm winds its way towards the plains beyond. The coach drivers employed on this road are all experienced men, so that the scenery can be enjoyed by the most timid without fear of danger. After descending the Gorge it is a pleasant run along the foot of the mountain range into Te Aroha, which is reached about 3.30 p.m. The entire journey being completed in 6 hours, including stoppages. Single fare, 12s; return, £1.

The Hot Springs are situated in the centre of the township, which nestles at the foot of the majestic Mount Aroha, which is 3160ft. in altitude, and is the most prominent peak in the magnificent range which stretches from Cape Colville to the Hora Hora, and is clad with verdure of the deep impenetrable primeval forest. From the summit of the mountain, which is easy of access to pedestrians with ordinary powers, winding pathways having been made to the trig-station at the top, the grandest, most romantic, and extensive views to be found in the province are obtainable, embracing the East Coast, ocean, and surrounding district for a hundred miles and more; and for those whose powers of endurance are not equal to the ascent, there is ample scope on the vast plains below for taking pleasant and invigorating exercise, pedestrian and equestrian. The Domain grounds were planted and terraced with grass and winding walks, reaching up into the bosky deeps of the native forest, where is to be found the wildest ordered profusion of New Zealand fern, flora, creepers, climbers, shrubs, and palms. Even in winter time the wide spreading grounds of the Sanatorium give delightful places to walk and loiter in. but in the summer the great leafy wreath of the exotic deciduous trees make deep green shadows everywhere, lit up with flashes of tall pampas, so that nature seems here to be holding perpetual fete. On such summer days, feeling the breath of cooling zephers, the domain is a place in which one may lay down all the burdens of the hard present, revel in all that is pleasant of the past, and realise all the impossible hopes of the future.

Last season the Domain Board added a Swimming Bath to the attractions of the Sanatorium. This provides pleasurable exorcise for tho stronger portion of visitors, and is much enjoyed by them. The Te Aroha Brass Band discourses sweet music in tho Domain grounds at regular intervals throughout the Season.

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As funds will allow the Domain Board propose carrying out many schemes for the improvement of the place and the attraction of visitors. A bridle track to the top of the mountain is contemplated, by which the most delicate could enjoy an easy ride through sylvan glades to the trig station. It is also intended to nave a dynamo machine to be driven by water power from the hills for the purpose of lighting the grounds and bath houses by electricity. The Wairakau Lake and the "Wairere Falls, when made approachable, 'will prove a source of pleasure to many sightseers.

.... Hotels ....

There are no less than three first-class hotels in the main street, which are capable of accommodating at least 200 people. The first one, coming from the Railway Station, is the Palace Hotel, under the management of Mr S. T. Smardon; further on are the Hot Springs Hotel, kept by Mr W. H. Knock, and nearly opposite, facing the entrance to the baths, is the Club Hotel, of which Mr A. Schultze is the proprietor. There is another hotel, the Family Hotel, kept by Mr O'Magher, in Rolleston Street, close to the river. These hotels are not only a credit to Te Aroha, but cannot be surpassed for comfort and convenience by any in the colony.

....Boarding-Houses....

In addition to these, there are four boarding-houses, which are well kept, and largely patronised by ladies and families visiting the Springs, every attention being given in each to the requirements and comfort of persons in delicate health. They are kept by Mr M. Hotchin, Mr C. Johnson, Mrs Blen-cowe and Mrs Kenny, and the terms are very moderate.

....The River....

The beautiful Waihou river, with its clear flowing waters, is of itself a popular attraction to Te Aroha, its banks are lined with graceful overhanging willows, and native flax and bush, which adds charm and excellence to the landscape. It is much enjoyed by the youthful swimmer and also by the soft-hearted lover, who delights to loiter in the 'shady bowers of the over hanging trees. Boats of every description are on hire at the boat-house. An interesting view of the river appears on the opposite page. An excellent picture of the coach road (in coarse of construction) connecting Te Aroha with the sea coast, appears in another part of this Guide.

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Waihou River Near Te Aroha.

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Analysis of the Te Aroha Hot Springs.

Te Aroha (Prov. Auckland), New Zealand, 350ft. above see level, 115 miles by rail (special railway carriages are provided for invalids) S.E from Auckland, and 36 miles by steamer or coach from Thames, a gold mining township on the Thames river, at the base of Mt. Te Aroha. The climate is equable, dry and salubrious. The scenery is exceedingly interesting. Post and Telegraph Office, Library and Reading Room, Domain (40 acres) with Pleasure Grounds and Tennis Court. There are a number of springs situated in the centre of the township, 18 in all, of which 15 are hot or tepid, also 6 bath-houses, all of which are most comfortably fitted up, and leave nothing to be desired as regards privacy or cleanliness; also a large building containing private single baths and a summer house with fountain, providing the mineral water for internal use. These baths are open from 0.30 a.m to 10 p.m. The waters, which are used both externally and internally, are, with the exception of the sulphur spring (No. 16) saline and feebly alkaline, and strongly charged with carbonic acid gas, which is constantly escaping from the springs in large quantities, rendering them effervescent and pleasant. These springs are very similar to those of Vichy (France), Ems (Germany), and Bilin (near Teplitz, Bohemia), and are stated to possess curate properties of a most extraordinary character.

The following Analysis of the various Springs has been made by Sir James Hector, Government Meterologist:—

Bath No. 1 (9ft 10in x ft) is very much used, and is set apart for females, the water is clear and colourless. Analysis (in grains per gallon): Bicarbonate of Soda 461.56, Chloride of Sodium 60.25, Chloride of Potassium 1.72, Sulphate of Soda 88.32, Carbonate of Lime 1077, Carbonate of Magnesia 6.86, Silica 7 56, Alumina and Iron Oxide traces—or a total of 585.99 grs. of mineral matters in one gallon. Temperature, 102. fah.

Bath No. 2,9ft x 7ft 3in (is famous for relieving persons suffering from rheumatism; a large building containing 2 bath, rooms, with waiting and dressing rooms attached. Analysis (in grains per gallon): Bicarbonate of Soda 426.29, Chloride of Sodium 60.45, Chloride of Potassium 1.90, Sulphate of So la 32.67, Carbonate of Lime 7.12, Carbonate of Magnesia 4.21, Silica 7.12, Alumina and Iron Oxide traces—or a total of 539.76 grs of mineral matters in one gallon. Temperature: 112. fah.

Bath No. 3 is a reservoir of hot, clear and colourless water, which supplies 8 private single baths in a building 200ft distant from it; this reservoir contains altogether about 15,000 gallons of water. Analysis (in grains per gallon): Bicarbonate of, Soda 429' 19, Chloride of Sodium 60.51, Sulphate of Soda 32.82, Carbonate of Lime 7 24, Carbonate of Magnesia 4.20, Silica 7.21, Alumina, Iron Oxide and Potas page break shim traces—or a total of 541.17 grs of mineral matters in one gallon Temperature: From 90. to 112. fah.

Bath No. 4 (11ft 9in, x 9ft 9in) is largely used, and has a building erected over the spring; the water is of a pale yellow colour. Analysis (in grains per gallon): Bicarbonate of Soda 246.49, Chloride of Sodium 34.24, Sulphate of Soda 19.16, Carbonate of Lime 4.62. Carbonate of Magnesia 2.14, Silica 5.17, also traces of Alumina, Iron Oxide and Potassium, or a total of 311.82 grs of mineral matters in one gallon. Temperature, 92. fah.

Bath No, 5 (11ft.x 9ft) is largely used, and has a building erected over the spring, the water of which is clear and colourless. Analysis (in grains per gallon): Bicarbonate of Soda 476.58, Chloride of Sodium 687 7, Sulphate of Soda 36.92, Carbonate of Lime 6.91, Carbonate of Magnesia 3.15, Silica 6.10, also traces of Alumina, Iron Oxide and Potassium,—total 398.43 grs of mineral matters in one gallon. Temperature 100. fah.

Bath No 6 (11ft 2in x9ft) is largely used, and has a good building erected over the spring, the water of which is clear and colourless. Analysis (in grains per gallon): Bicarbonate of Soda 499.75, Chloride of Sodium 66.23. Sulphate of Soda 35 14, Carbonate of Lime 7.12, Carbonate of Magnesia 2 99, Silica 7.14, also traces of Alumina, Iron Oxide and Potassium, total 618.37 grs of mineral matters in one gallon. Temperature: 104. fah.

Spring No. 7 is tepid and not much used. Analysis (in grains per gallon): Bicarbonate of Soda 444.20, Chloride of Sodium 67.13, Sulphate of Soda 34.04, Carbonate of Lime 7.46, Carbonate of Magnesia 4.34, Silica 7.01, also traces of Alumina, Iron Oxide and Potassium, total 564.18 grs of mineral matters in one gallon. Temperature: 86. f.

Spring No. 8 is known as the drinking fountain, the water, which is clear and colourless, is freely used by all those suffering from dyspepsia, &c., and affords great relief to many. The fountain is built over the spring, so that the water may be drawn from a tap. Analysis (in grains per gallon): Bicarbonate of Soda 451.97, Chloride of Sodium 66 14, Chloride of Potassium 1.96, Sulphate of Soda 32.91, Carbonate of Lime 7.47, Carbonate of Magnesia 4.21, Silica 8 60 also traces of Alumina and Iron Oxide, total 573.26 grs of mineral matters in one gallon. Temperature: 109. fah.

Spring No 9. Analysis (in grains per gallon): Bicarbonate of Soda 301.17, Chloride of Sodium 41.29, Sulphate of Soda 22.16, Carbonate of Lime 4.95, Carbonate of Magnesia 2.61, Silica 6.44, also traces of Alumina and Iron Oxide, total 378 61 grs of mineral matters i one gallon. Temperature: 112. fah.

Spring No 10. Analysis (in grains per gallon): Bicarbonate of Soda 27619, Chloride of Sodium 35.24, Sulphate of Soda 1919, Carbonate of Lime 4.67, Carbonate of Magnesia 2.31, Silica 6., also traces of Alumina and Iron Oxide, total 343.60 grs of mineral matter in one gallon. Temperature: 96. fah.

Spring No 11. Analysis is grains per gallon): Bicarbonate of Soda 261.44, Chloride of Sodium 34.69, Sulphate of Soda 2012, Carbonate of Lime 5.11, Carbonate of Magnesia 2.56, Silica 6.11, also traces of Alumina and Iron Oxide, total 330.03 grs. of mineral matter in one page break gallon. Temperature: 88. fah.

Spring No. 12. Analysis (in grains per gallon): Bicarbonate of Soda 300.97 Chloride of Sodium 41.66, Sulphate of Soda 22.96, Carbonate of Lime 512, Carbonate of Magnesia 2.99, Silica 7.11, also traces of Alumina and Iron Oxide, total 380.81 grs of mineral matters in one gallon. Temperature: 88. fah.

Spring No. 13, the water of which has a pale yellow colour, is run into No. 5 Bath. Analysis (in grains per gallon): Bicarbonate of Soda 301.64, Chloride of Sodium 40.65, Sulphate of Soda 21.86, Carbonate of Lime 6.11, Carbonate of Magnesia 3.13, Silica 6.86, also traces of Alumina and Iron Oxide, total 380.27 grs of mineral matters in one gallon. Temperature: 120. fah

Spring No 14, the water of which has a pale yellow colour, is run into the reservoir (No 3), Analysis (in grains per gallon): Bicarbonate of Soda 321.64, Chloride of Sodium 42.61, Sulphate of Soda 23 16, Carbonate of Lime 7.14, Carbonate of Magnesia 3.49, Silica 6.66 also traces of Alumina and Iron Oxide, total 404.70 grs of mineral matters in one gallon. Temperature: 122. fah.

Spring No 15, known as the "Onslow Spring," the water of which is clear and colourless, and largely used for drinking. Analysis, in grains per gallon: Bicarbonate of Soda 331.76. Chloride of Sodium 4311, Sulphate of Soda 22.16, Carbonate of Lime 6.91, Carbonate of Magnesia 3.61, Silica 7.05, also traces of Alumina and Iron Oxide, total 414.60 grs of mineral matters in one gallon. Temperature: 139. fah.

Spring No 16, known as the "Sulphur Spring," is a cold spring of an acidic and hepatic character. Sulphur is found in small quantities in the surrounding clay, and strong sulphuretted hydrogen gas is emitted. A building, 24ft x 16ft, containing 2 bath-rooms, has been erected over this spring, and is new known as No 7 Building. The spring is largely used, and is of great benefit in cases of cutaneous diseases. Analysis, in grains per gallon: Sulphate of Soda 1.82, Sulphate of Lime 0.61, Sulphate of Magnesia 0.36, Sulphate of Alumina and Iron Oxides 0.20, Silica 7.04, Hydrochloric Acid, free, 1.11, Sulphuric Acid 0.21, total 11.35 grs of mineral matters in one gallon

Spring No 17 is a cold spring. The water, which is used for bathing the eyes, is rather turbid, owing to the presence of precipitated sulphur. Analysis, in grains per gallon: Bicarbonate of Soda 9 36, Chloride of Sodium 2.71, Sulphate of Soda 3.92, Carbonate of Lime 0.64, Carbonate of Magnesia 0.27, Silica 4 21, total 21.11 grs of mineral matters in one gallon. Also 1.4 of Sulphuretted Hydrogen.

Spring No 18 is a cold soda water spring, clear and colourless. Analysis, in grains per gallon: Bicarbonate of Soda 131.72, Chloride of Sodium 16.12, Sulphate of Soda 8.16, Carbonate of Lime 1.97, Carbonate of Magnesia 1.101, Silica 13.14, also traces of Alumina and Iron Oxide, total 172.12 grs of mineral matters in one gallon.

Special Indications: Efficacious in Gouty and Rheumatic Affections, Chronic Dyspepsia, Disorders of the Urinary Organs, Cutaneous Diseases, Splenic and Hepatic Disorders, Diseases due to excess of Acidity, Neuralgia, Sciatica, etc.

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Hot Springs Domain Board.

The Hot Springs Domain Board as at present constituted consists of the following members:—Messrs T. Gavin (chairman), T. Bradley, E. Gallagher, W. Hetherington, and M. Hotchin. Clerk, Mr P. Snewin. The Board meetings are held monthly on the 1st Saturday in each month in the Board room of the Domain.

Recreations and Amusements.

Public Library and Reading-Room, Domain Buildings:—Invalids and other visitors will fiud in our Public Library and Reading-room the means of passing pleasant hours, and of keeping themselves posted up in the current news of the day. The library is well stocked with books, the supply of which is continually being augmented; the reading room is free, and is furnished with the chief Home and Colonial newspapers and periodicals. It is open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Books are procurable from the Custodian, who attends daily. Subscriptions to the library for visitors, Is per month.

The Tennis Court is in the Domain grounds, and consists of two courts. Visitors can be supplied with nets, rackets, and balls, for the small charge of Is per week, or 2s 6d for two weeks or more.

Boating.—The Waihou river, which run6 through Te Aroha, affords those fond of boating an opportunity of enjoying themselves to the full. A large number of skiffs and boats are on hire at Air Everett's boathouse, near the bridge.

Billiard Booms.—Are at the Palace, Hot Springs, and Club Hotels, they are furnished with excellent Tables anil well appointed.

Riding and Diving.—The mountain scenery near Te Aroha offers great attractions to those fond cf the equestrain art. The two livery stables in the township are kept by Mr E. Gallagher and Smardon Bros., where saddle horses, buggies, etc., are to be had on hire at reasonable charges.

Picnics.—The numerous gullies and ravines, which abound in the neighbourhood, offer facilities close at hand for the enjoyment of Picnic and Gipsy Parties in the bush.

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Testimonials

As to the Value of the Baths.

(Selected from among hundreds of others.)

J. P. Hickey, Whitford, writes:—"Derived great benefit from Nos. 2 and 3 Baths, before I left I jumped 4ft. 3in. long jump. Could not jump 6in when I came here."

E. J. Care, Auckland, writes:—"Cured of rheumatism and indigestion in 4 weeks at Te Aroha. I was 3 weeks at Rotorua, but received no benefit."

A. H. Nelson, M.L.C., Queensland. March, 1891.—"Enjoyed a week at these Baths. Found great benefit to liver and kidneys; especially for the drinking of the water in the Kiosk."

A. M. Donald, Auckland.—"Very severe case of acute rheumatism could not walk without crutches, and legs much swollen. Complete cure in three weeks by use of No. 2 Bath."

I. Hunter, Melbourne.—"Came to Te Aroha broken in health and spirits, and am leaving well and happy."

P. F. Bruen, M.D., Westport.—"Arrived at Te Aroha in a very feeble state; general debility and muscular rheumatism of the worst type. I leave vary greatly improved in every respect."

Rev. Jas. Cameron, Sydney.—"I have now been one month at Te Aroha. I have bathed morning and evening, and drunk three or four jugs of water daily. During the first week a long standing cough and pain in the chest, both the result of an attack of pleurisy, entirely left me. Before coming here my stomach and liver were much deranged, digestion bad, and appetite very poor. I now eat largely, regularly, and with relish, and am now fully recovered from all my ailments."

Malcolm M. Irving, Newcastle, N.S.W.—"These baths are as good as any of a similar chemical nature in Europe, and only require to bo known to become frequented by residents in Australia and travellers from Europe. The hotels are superior in every way to any in N.S.W., and charges very moderate."

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The Mountain of Te Aroha

Thou are a triumph of God, oh ! glorious mountain of Aroha,
Rearing thy tree clad heights right up to the floors of heaven,
Holding the sunlight of years on thy broad shoulders, reflecting
The grace of eternal youth, and the elixir powers of water,
For sunlight and shade, moisture and rains conspiring make there forever great a statue of nature worthy,
A place in God's paradise, thou peer of all things supurnal,
And mid the pampas plumes, which low at thy feet adoring,
Wave forth thy praise, and of the Divine Creator,
Who hath made all things well, mountains, and trees, and grasses.
Birds of the air which flit, in all their area Man naiveness,
Waters which leap and glide, over the stones and mosses
Rushing to charge the plains with life for the coming harvest.
I join the chorus resonant, swung by the winds, and the rustling
Of twice ten thousand boughs rivalling the sound of great waters,
As when the curling surf, pours out its mighty oblations.
Brought from a thousand leagues of sea, which forever
Leaps, and in vain, strives to kiss the feet of the highest,
Who, in His love for man, hath made all things for his vantage,
Leading our thoughts by what is, to that which lieth beyond us,
Teaching that beauty in nature and all its wondrous completeness,
Is—as we should be—a type of the power and the glory,
Grace and perfection divine—which rules in the being of Godhead.
That he would call us forth from out of the shade and the glamour,
And by the gladness of nature around us loud voicing.
The will of God—the bugle cry of the ages
May ring in the souls of men; excelsior now and forever.
Then like thy mountain peak, Oh, Aroha; lofty and lovely.
Clad with an ever freshness of life, to sing His praise and enjoy Him,
We shall be great and true, to bow at His feet and adore Him.