At the Islands.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXIX, Issue 56, 27 June 1914, Page 5

At the Islands.

QUAINT NATIVE CUSTOMS. PLIGHT OF SUNDAY ISLANDERS. [Per Press Association.] Auckland, June 27. The Government steamer Tutanekai returned this morning from her Island cruise at Tonga.

The visitors were entertained at a garden party at Dr. Izard's residence and dined at the British Residency, where the King of Tonga was one of the guests. The people of the Island entertained the visitors with lavish hospitality. The Prime Minister of Tonga entertained a large party on the historical battlefield near Nukunuku, the dinner being served in native fashion to the guests, all sitting on mats and dispensing with plates, forks, etc. The guests were subsequently entertained by the New Zealanders at Nukualofa,where the Natives gave several beautiful dances. On her return, the Tutanekai called at Sunday Island. It was intended to remove the settlers there to New Zealand, but as their goods were not ready for shipment, the steamer continued her voyage. The Tutanekai will now join in the search for the launch missing from the Bay of Islands, and will call for the Sunday Islanders before she again returns to the Dominion.

During the last few days the Tutanekai encountered very stormy weather.