Newspaper Article 1945 – William Nelson Avenue

William Nelson Avenue

A PRACTICAL STEP to preserve and enhance the beauty of the countryside round Hastings has been decided upon by the Hawke’s Bay County Council. Caroline road, between the boundary of the Hastings borough and the showgrounds, is to be made an avenue of trees. It is to be named William Nelson Avenue, in memory of the revered pioneer whose enterprise and imagination did much to develop this district both industrially and aesthetically.

The creation of a tree-lined approach to Waikoko is a very appropriate memorial to the man who laid out and planted the beautiful grounds which are the delight of all who visit them.

By making Caroline road into a tree-lined driveway the County Council will provide a noble compensation for the loss to the district of the stately poplars William Nelson had planted years ago, but which now have reached the end of their life. The community will be grateful to the County Councillors whose public-spiritedness has inspired this good decision. The gratitude felt will extend into future generations, and will serve to inspire people now and in the years to come with appreciation for trees that will encourage further endeavours to promote the beauty of our town and district.

The discussion at this week’s meeting of the Chamber of Commerce, and the spontaneous expressions of sadness and regret at the cutting-down of the poplars in Pakowhai road, revealed that there is profound public awareness of the aesthetic value of trees. Some timely and useful advice about the planting of trees in streets was given at this meeting by Mr. MacKenzie, Superintendant of Reserves.

The proposal to set up a committee of citizens to co-operate with the Hawke’s Bay County Council and Borough Council in promoting the planting of decorative trees, gives promise of an active interest being taken in the beautifying of the town and its environs. Meantime, a heartening lead has been given by the County Council. The Poplar Avenue cannot survive, but there will always be a William Nelson Avenue.