CINEMATOGRAPHER IN THE PACIFIC

Hokitika Guardian, 22 October 1930, Page 7

CINEMATOGRAPHER IN THE PACIFIC

VISIT TO RAROTONGA. WELLINGTON, October 20. Commissioned by Mutual Films, Ltd., of Wellington, to take a series of pictures dealing with native life and other objects of interest, Mr J. A. Warded, of Wellington, cinematographer, returned by the Makura to-day at the conclusion of a six months’ trip around Rarotonga and the Cook Islands. During his absence Mr Warded expos'd about 12,000 feet of film. This was unloaded from the Makura to-day and will be forwarded to America for sound synchronisation. Inquiries are being made at present, and it is possible that the work may be done in New Zealand instead, TRADE POSSIBILITIES. While in the Island Mr Warded spent some time investigating the possibilities of trade, and the outcome of his visit will be the establishment of a canning factory at Rarotonga. He says in connection with the fruit trade that the natives are very dissatisfied with the method of trading with New Zealand, in many cases, he added, they had received only a few shillings lor their product; in fact, hardly sufficient to pay for the case in which the fruit is packed. The natives were appealing to the Government for an investigation, and it was suggested that they would not continue to trade until they were assured of a square deal. Exploitation had been freely alleged.