JAPANESE WARSHIPS IN AUCKLAND.

Kaipara and Waitemata Echo, 10 January 1912, Page 2

JAPANESE WARSHIPS IN AUCKLAND.

During the week two battleships, Aso and Sayo, belonging to the Japanese Navy, have been laying in Auckland Harbour, and no matter where you go in the city you will see the sailorman taking stock of things generally. On Saturday afternoon the Sayo was open to visitors, and on Sunday the Aso was opened for inspection by the general public which was availed of by a very large number. ■■

These ships were both captured rrom the Russians during the Russo-Japanese war, the Aso (Bayan) being one of the best of Russian cruisers, the Sayo (Var!fSl "l g + u very swift cruiserAlthough the change from white paint to very dark slate, they may still be recognised as possessing the leading characteristics of Russian design. Rear Admiral Kato is -in command.

JAPS IN HELENSVILLE. Last Saturday Helensville was visited by a number of Japanese sailors from the battleships Aso hour Thi y Tmg in Auckl*nd Har. hour. The Japanese sailors, who were smartly dressed in dark blue uniforms, made the best of their visit hereby visiting all the small shops m quest of local views anH Trt'- T^f bu^was Stall on their side either', as they fal a. nT- ber of P^tcard views of their ships and country, which they offered for sale, and they managed to sell or exchange a ?°°d number. The open wat m which they asked for informal tion, such as Where wast£^enU trance to Kaipara Harbour ? How deep at low tide? etc., made se^ era! of our local knowing ones put on their wondering cfps and refuse ogive information which the visiting men-o^warsmen mav m K the near future mak? us™nf whenheycome for a full supply °* bu«er, bacon, and meat, tb rl plenish their stores with OnL gentleman who was tapped forinformation, remarked '? that o £ never knew what might hao^n in these uncertain times "