Page:Municipal Handbook of Auckland 1922.djvu/41

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AUCKLAND MUNICIPAL HANDBOOK


City's main street and to be moored at the wharf there. On its waters the smallest and lightest craft may cruise among the myriad islands or explore the smaller gulfs and bays which abound. The waters of the gulf attract both yachtsmen and fishermen, for scenery and sport are to be found in abundance. Auckland's beaches, which are easily accessible, are famed for their safety, and to the jaded city dweller they are a source of physical refreshment and enjoyment. In the summer time they are the pleasure grounds of thousands.

Nature has dealt bountifully with Auckland. Sunshine and rain she has given with equal generosity. The mean annual temperature is about 58°; the coldest month (July) has an average of 51°, and the hottest month (December) an average of 65°. The average rainfall is about 43 inches. Frosts are rare, and a serious drought practically unknown.

The City itself is beautifully situated between the Waitemata and the Manukau Harbours. Leaving Auckland City by electric tram, one may travel across the narrow isthmus to the Borough of Onehunga, on the Manukau Harbour, in less than forty-five minutes, the distance being about seven miles. At the narrowest point the distance is less than a mile. For many years proposals that these two harbours should be connected by a canal have been discussed; such a canal would add enormously to the City's commercial facilities. The Northern Boroughs,

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