Scholars' Holidays.
How the Railways Help.

“Know your New Zealand!” That phrase might well be adopted among educationists as a slogan, for nothing is more likely to make New Zealanders ardent patriots than opportunity to know their own country by personal contact with her many scenic attractions, natural wonders, and pleasure and health resorts.

These remarks are prompted by a letter received from Mr. H. I. Sinclair, one of the masters at the Boys' High School, Christchurch, who took a large party of scholars up to Arthur's Pass recently, and to whom the District Engineer at Christchurch (Mr. J. McNair) granted the occupation of one of the Railway houses for their stay.

Mr. Sinclair's letter runs:—

On behalf of my boys and on my own account, I wish to thank yourself, Mr. Guiness and other Railway officials concerned for the extreme courtesy shown and the wonderful attention given to us to make our sojourn at Arthur's Pass successful. I must say that but for your kindliness in going to so much trouble for us my task in caring for my boys would have been rather difficult. All arrangements were carried out without a hitch and all had a most enjoyable time. I trust that there have been no complaints lodged against us.

The weather was well-nigh perfect and we made the most of our opportunities by making tours of some description every day with the result that without exception the lads want to go back to the mountains again.

I do think that the glorious playground we have in the region of Arthur's Pass should be made more widely known to Secondary School children because a wonderful education awaits them there, and for that reason I would suggest that the possibility of Secondary School parties using the “stopover” fare should be more widely advertised.

I feel that it is through your and the others' efforts that our trip was so successful. Thanking you once again, and wishing the Railway Department every success, —I remain,