Page:Notes on New Zealand (1892).pdf/209

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NOTES ON NEW ZEALAND.
199

found in blocks of all sizes up to 150lbs. each.

At one time gum digging was greatly looked down upon, and called a "new chum's game;" but now that the trade has been opened up with America, it is a very remunerative business.

The gum is used in the manufacture of varnish by New York and London firms, which have branches in Auckland. It is also used for ornaments and pipe mouthpieces, which are often sold to the innocent as amber. It fetches from £35 to £50 per ton.