MEETING OF RELIEF COMMITTEE: NO FUNDS IN HAND

By Otaki Historical Society
2532

From the Otaki Mail, May 8, 1935

A meeting of the Mayor’s relief committee was held at the Council Chambers on Friday afternoon, the Mayor (Mr T O’Rourke), presiding. It was pointed out that there was no money in hand and it was therefore decided to make an appeal to the Minister for a donation from the money raised by means of art unions.

It was stated that donations would be gratefully accepted, it being pointed out by members present that there was a deal of distress in Otaki. It was also agreed that a letter be written to the Minister of Unemployment asking that the men be put back on work, and thus given more assistance. It was also decided to ask for the backing of the Borough Council in this matter.

One of the government's relief schemes was clearing land in Te Horo of the stones known as 'Hautere turnips'. The workers were housed in tents. The stones were used for fences, many of which can still be seen in the area.
One of the government’s relief schemes was clearing land in Te Horo of the stones known as ‘Hautere turnips’. The workers were housed in tents. The stones were used for fences, many of which can still be seen in the area.