OPENING OF THE WANGANUI BRIDGE.

Westport Times, Volume V, Issue 896, 5 December 1871, Page 3

OPENING OF THE WANGANUI BRIDGE.

The Luna arrived in the Wanganui River at 9 a.m., on Nov 28, aud was met by two Maori war canoes, fully manned, aud Mete Kingi, in his fgeneral's uniform. At the wharf hisExcellencywas welcomed by Aperatna, Kawana, e Topin, Paipai, and others. The volunteers mustered strongly, and the detachment of the Wellington Artillery Volunteers having landed from Jthe Luna, fired a salute as the Governor stepped ashore. Mr Williamson, the Chairman of the Town Board read an address from the Board, and his Excellency replied, contrasting the present peaceful condition of Wanganui with its state during the period of native disturbances. His Excellency was loudly cheered. A dashing carriage and four with postillions, had been provided, but as the horses were restive, tha Governor aud Lady Bowen preferred to walk in the procession to the Rutland Hotel, where apartments had been provided for them. In the evening the Governor attended a very successful amateur dramatic performance. The following day he opened the bridge. The various volunteer corps assembled at 11 o'clock, and the procession crossed the bridge in the following order : —Wanganui Cavalry, Veteran Volunteer Band, Marton Band, Drum and Fife Band, Marton Cavalry, Rangitikei Cavalry, Aramoho Cavalry, Alexandra Cavalry, Veteran Volunteers, Marton Cadet Corps, Militia Officers, Governor's carriage, Turakina Cavalry, Fire Brigade with engine, Reception Committee, citizens and Maori chiefs.

Opposite to the grand stand an address from the Bridge Committee was read by Mr W. H. Watt. The Governor replied. Major Kemp then read the address from the natives, to which his Excellency also replied. The procession then crossed the bridge, countermarched, and recrossed, halting on the bridge while a photograph was taken. The procession then proceeded to the Rutland Hotel, where the Governor thanked the volunteers and congratulated the contractor on the completion of his magnificent work. Cheers were then given for the Queen, the Governor, Lady Bowen, the contractor, and the bridge. A levee was held at two o'clock, and at night a ball, at which his Excellency and Lady Bowen were present.