THE NEW ZEALAND MASCOTS.

Taranaki Daily News, 28 August 1919, Page 5

THE NEW ZEALAND MASCOTS.

CAPTAIN'S TIKI AND KIWI MAT. An amusing account was given by Lord Jellicoe at the civic luncheon in Wellington of the manner in which the Dominion's gifts to H.M.S. New Zealand are treasured. In -reviewing the list of officers who have been in command of the battle-cruiser, the admiral said that when Sir Lionel Halsey visited the Dominion in H.MS. New Zealand he was showered with gifts of plate and mascots. Somebody donated e» tiki, which was to be worn by the captain whenever the ship went into action, and lie had it from Sir Lionel's own lips that ha wore it round his neek; and Cftptain Leggatt, he knew, took it off only when he came ashore. It waa still on board the New Zealand. Then there waa the kiwi mat which Sir Lionel also insisted on wearing. He,left it on board, and one of his successors took it. That officer had worn it—even in August— in the conning (tower was always a warm spot). Captain John Green (now Admiral Green), who waa in charge at Jotland, did his best to carry out the traditions, but not being so slim in figure as Sir Lionel, found that the mat would not meet —(uproarious laughter)—still he went through with it.