AVIATION.

Hokitika Guardian, 21 September 1928, Page 2

AVIATION.

TASMAN PLIERS. (By Telegraph—Per Press Association.) HAMILTON, Sept. 20. The Southern Cross aviators visited Hamilton by enr en route to Rotorua. The town was decorated and largo crowds from town and country who lined the main street vociferously cheered the aviators. A civic, reception was given. Ulm, replying to the welcome predicted a bright future for civil as well n.s military aviation in New Zealand. VISIT TO ROTORUA. ROTORUA, Sept 20. Tbo Tasman aviators arrived hero at 4.30 p.m. and were accorded an enthusiastic reception by the borough and public at the Government Bathhouse. The Mayor, Mr J. N. McLean, wel coined tho visitors, who responded, the speeches being recorded by a loud speaker to a great crowd. Tho evening was spent at tho baths at tho Government Bathhouse, a Maori entertainment, and the Orphans Club in intervals. They will visit local sights, and will leave for Wairakei in the late morning.

The Hag of Queensland was flown over the 'Grand Hotel where they were staying, in honour of the Australians. Seldom has such a spontaneous and hearty welcome been given to visitors, tho crowds filling tho streets to a late hour to catch a glimpse of the fliers.

GIFT OP MOTH PLANE. AUCKLAND, Sept. 20. In order to help forward the c'ause of civil aviation in New Zealand, so strongly advocated by Squadron Lead-er-Kingsford Smith, and to mark in a substantial way the first flight across the Tasman Sea, the Directors of the N.Z. Herald have offered to present the Auckland Aero Club with its first aeroplane, a Moth machine of the latest type. In proffering the gift, the Directors have recognised the great potential value of aviation to tho Dominion, the need for developing an “air sense”• in the general public, and the cognate need for building up nnd maintaining as large a hotly as possible o( trained N.Z. pilots and aircraftsmen for contingent future requirements. THE TESTIMONIAL. CHRISTCHURCH, Sept. 20. So far about £IOO lias been subscribed here for tlie Tasman fliers’ testimonial, including £25 from Sir H. Wigram. Mayor Archer appeals for a better response.