EXCURSION TO TAURANGA

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume XXXIX, Issue 5303, 23 July 1928, Page 2

EXCURSION TO TAURANGA

LARGE CROWD MAKE TRIP.

RAIN MARS THE HOLIDAY.

The long-anticipated railway excursion from Paeroa to Tauranga, eventuated on Saturday, but, unfortunately, an easterly gale somewhat marred the outing. The excursion, which was inaugurated by the Paeroa Rugby Union, was well patronised by the local public, and the long train, comprising thirteen carriages and two engines, carried 530 persons, only three less than the number who participated in the Thames excursion to Tauranga on the' previous Saturday. No doubt the unpjropitious weather prevented many more local people from making the trip on Saturday. The train left Paeroa shortly after 8.30 a.m., and heavy rain commenced to fall, such conditions! nrevailing throughout the journey to the East Coast. A great many of the; excursionists were making their first visit to Tauranga, and the keenest interest was taken in the scenery en route. Unfortunately the heavy rai|ii completely obscured the landscape at times, and much of the pleasure of the trip was lost. The train reached Tauranga on schedule time, and a. few minutes later was emptied of its living freight at tre Strand station, and soon the streets of Tauranga, were thronged with eager visitors seeking shelter from the' torrential shower of rain whreh fell just as the detraining took place. Apart from the general public four football teams,, five basketball teams, a ladies’ hockey team, and a ladies,’ and men’s golf team mad.e the trip. The teams weiile met on arrival by Mr H. B. Warner, president, of the Tauranga Football Union, and rripresen.tatives of the other sports bodies, and were directed to hotels or, refreshment roomk.

On behalf of the visiting teams Mr W. P. Pennell acknowledged the welcome! and assured the local union that, Paeroa, was looking forward to the return visit, of the Tauranga players. Visitors who were not participating in the various games speii,t an interesting afternoon sight-seeing between the .showers of .rain. The football. basketball, and hockey matches were played at the domain,, and the golfers journeyed, out to the' links at Gate Pa.

Paeroa did not have a “day out” s.o far as victories were concerned, the football, hockey, and golf teams being defeated by Tauranga, and only two basketball teams obtained wins. Credit is due- to the R'ailjvay Department and the Paeroa Rugby Union for the complete arrangements made, for the excursion. Leaving Tauranga at 6 p.m., the return trip was; madte Without incident, apd it was a goodnatured -and .happy, if sopiewhat tired, crown that,’ reached Paeroa shortly after nine o’clock.