IMPRESSIONS OF DOMINION.

Hokitika Guardian, 21 August 1925, Page 4

IMPRESSIONS OF DOMINION.

EAlii/ OK KTiiA'DIiKOKE’S TtU'IC AECKI.AXD, August !7. The Earl of Stradhroke, Governor of Victoria; arrived at. Auckland liy tin* express from Rotorua tliis ultcrunon alter a live days’ tour through tlio North Island. Dining his Hying visit lie was able to see much, and in an interview this evening spoke enthusiastically of his liisL visit to this country. tin Saturday afternoon the Earl ol Slradbrnke and his aide de camp were motored to Whakarcwarewa, via a portion of the forest reserve, and the bine and green lakes. The evening was spent at a .Maori concert, which was novel to the visitors, and thoroughly enjoyed by them.. Sunday was a busy day. They set out early in the morning for AYairnkei, arriving there before It a. i11., and alter an inspection of i lie geyser valley I bey proceeded on In Tnnpo, passing the llukn Falls, and tile Aial in tin Rapids. The night was spent at Jtnlnrun. and they ltd I lor Auckland this morning. On arrival at the station they were met by Sir dames I’arr, representing the Government. and were taken motoring in Ihe short time that remained he fort* dark. The Earl oi Stradhroke was very milch impressed with the sunset as seen from the top of Alt. Eden. both the Earl of Stradhroke and Mr Rirrham were attracted by scenic beauties. Mis 'Excellency was enthusiastic about the drive from 'Rotorua to AVhakarewarewa, and thought the Governmeiit was wise in cultivating afforestation. The trees seemed to be thriving wonderfully well, and there were no bare patches. lie thought AVairnkei more wonderful than Itotortnt from a thermal point of view. The Earl of Stradhroke commented favourably on the Maoris he had conversed with at Rotorua and other places. They were of fine physique and surprisingly well spoken. He was charmed by the Maori dances and singing at Rotorua. ‘ I would like to thank the Government and the people for the many kindnesses that have been extended to us on our tour, added the Earl. ‘‘AA'e have met with hospitality everywhere, and it has made the hurried visit all the more enjoyible.” * The Earl of Stradhroke was the guest of Sir James Parr at dinner at ho Grand Hotel this evening, and ator left for Sydney by the Aornngi.